First Niger Bridge: Asagba Azinge Hails Federal Intervention, Highlights Regional Economic Importance
By NWAFOR AZINGE
THE Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, OON, has commended the Federal Government for rehabilitating and reopening the First Niger Bridge Road in Onitsha, describing the intervention as a significant step towards protecting critical national infrastructure.
The monarch attended the reopening ceremony on 15 October 2026, accompanied by palace chiefs. Speaking on behalf of Asaba Kingdom, he praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, for their roles in the project.
According to Azinge, the rehabilitation represents one of the most comprehensive interventions on the bridge since its construction before the Nigerian Civil War. He also stressed that the bridge remains a vital connection between Delta and Anambra states.
Beyond linking the two states, the bridge serves as an important transport corridor between Nigeria’s South-South and South-East regions. Consequently, its continued availability is essential to the movement of people, goods and services, as well as commercial activities across the two regions.
Earlier, Umahi explained that the rehabilitation formed part of the Federal Government’s efforts to protect strategic national infrastructure. He disclosed that the intervention included the installation of solar-powered lights, closed-circuit television cameras, median barriers and security observation posts following reports of structural concerns.
Meanwhile, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented at the ceremony by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, also praised the Federal Government for its intervention.
The commendations highlighted the bridge’s importance to regional transportation and economic integration. However, sustaining its benefits will also require regular maintenance, effective security and continued monitoring to protect the infrastructure and ensure safe passage for road users.
