First Niger Bridge closure: FRSC moves to avert gridlock in Onitsha, environs
Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Anambra State Sector Command, has deployed personnel to strategic locations in Onitsha and its environs ahead of the temporary closure of the First Niger Bridge scheduled from September 7 to 21, 2026.
This was contained in a press statement signed and made available to journalists by the FRSC Anambra Sector Public Education Officer, SRC Margaret Onabe.
Onabe disclosed in the statement that the deployment is part of proactive measures in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure effective traffic management, smooth vehicular movement, and safety of road users during the two-week closure.
The Sector Commander, FRSC Anambra, Corps Commander Bridget Asekhauno, said the command had conducted a working visit and road audit along major routes connecting to the Second Niger Bridge, which will serve as the primary alternative route during the period.
The exercise was carried out in conjunction with the Sector Head of Operations, the Controller, Federal Ministry of Works, Anambra State, Engr. Emenike Timothy, his Delta State counterpart, and the Commander of the Anambra State Traffic Management Agency.
Speaking on the outcome of the audit, Asekhauno said the assessment focused on identifying critical routes and areas requiring urgent intervention to facilitate movement and minimise the risk of road traffic crashes during the closure.
According to her, motorists are advised to use designated alternative routes including the Nkpor–Old Road–Obosi route, the Onitsha–Owerri Road from Upper Iweka, and the Atani Road through Uga Junction to Harbour Industrial Layout.
“The FRSC, in collaboration with other traffic management agencies and relevant stakeholders in Anambra and Delta States, is fully prepared to manage traffic and respond promptly to emergencies throughout the period,” she said.
The Sector Commander urged motorists to plan their journeys ahead, obey traffic rules and directives, avoid unnecessary stopping or parking along the routes, and refrain from dangerous driving practices.
She further appealed to members of the public to cooperate with FRSC personnel and other security agencies deployed to strategic points, noting that compliance with traffic regulations is essential to achieving a safe and seamless flow of traffic.
The closure of the First Niger Bridge for maintenance is expected to divert a significant volume of traffic to the Second Niger Bridge, raising concerns about possible congestion on access roads in Onitsha and Asaba.
Officials said inter-agency coordination and public compliance will be critical to averting gridlock and ensuring safety during the period.
