The Federal Government is considering diverting heavy-duty vehicles and trucks from the First Niger Bridge to the Second Niger Bridge as part of efforts to address persistent traffic congestion along the busy route connecting Anambra and Delta states.
The proposed measure was disclosed by the Anambra State Federal Controller of Works, Timothy Emenike, during an interview with journalists on Tuesday.
Emenike said the Ministry of Works was considering installing barriers at both entrances of the First Niger Bridge to prevent heavy-duty vehicles from accessing it.
According to him, the narrow lanes on the First Niger Bridge make it difficult for two heavy-duty trucks to pass each other at the same time, increasing the risk of traffic obstruction whenever a vehicle breaks down.
He explained that the Second Niger Bridge has enough capacity to accommodate the heavy vehicles and could help reduce pressure on the older bridge, which has continued to experience gridlock since it reopened on October 15, 2026.
The First Niger Bridge was closed on September 7 for emergency repairs after an inspection revealed structural damage, including missing bolts, cut steel components and damaged expansion joints. It was reopened following rehabilitation works and the introduction of new road demarcations.
However, motorists have continued to complain about long delays, particularly when broken-down vehicles obstruct the restricted lanes. Some drivers have also called on the authorities to provide towing vehicles at both ends of the bridge to ensure that faulty vehicles can be removed quickly.
Emenike acknowledged the complaints and said the ministry was exploring several measures to improve traffic flow, especially as the festive travel season approaches.
He also urged motorists, particularly truck drivers, to ensure their vehicles are in good condition and to move them away from the main carriageway whenever they develop mechanical faults.
The proposed diversion has not yet been officially implemented, but the government says it is among the options being considered to ease movement along the important transport corridor.