Nigeria's Minister of Works, David Umahi, has directed that President Bola Tinubu's pictures be displayed on the First Niger Bridge as rehabilitation work on the ageing bridge continues. The directive was given during Umahi's inspection of the ongoing repair works at the Onitsha end of the bridge in Anambra State. According to him, the President deserves to be appreciated for approving the intervention that is helping to restore the bridge, which is one of Nigeria's busiest road links connecting the South-East and South-South.
The First Niger Bridge is a major transport route linking Onitsha in Anambra State to Asaba in Delta State. Every day, thousands of commuters, commercial vehicles and heavy-duty trucks use the bridge, making it one of the busiest federal roads in the country. The ongoing rehabilitation became necessary after some of the bridge's structural components were vandalised, raising safety concerns. Earlier, Umahi had insisted that the bridge would remain closed until engineers certify that it is safe for motorists to use again.
During the inspection, Umahi also frowned at the different banners and adverts displayed around the bridge without approval. He ordered that all illegal advertisements be removed immediately, adding that anyone who wants to advertise on the bridge must first get clearance from the Ministry of Works. This move aims to regulate and standardize advertising on the bridge, ensuring that only approved and safe advertisements are displayed.
In addition to the directive on advertisements, Umahi announced additional measures to improve the bridge's safety and aesthetics. He ordered the installation of additional solar-powered street lights on the bridge to improve visibility and security. The minister also directed that the installation of the bridge's CCTV surveillance system should be completed, including linking it to the Second Niger Bridge.
To ensure the bridge remains structurally safe, Umahi set up a technical committee to inspect both the visible parts of the bridge and the sections beneath the water. The committee will conduct an empirical evaluation of the bridge's condition and report back to the minister. This move demonstrates the government's commitment to ensuring the bridge's safety and longevity.
The display of President Tinubu's pictures on the bridge is a gesture of appreciation for his approval of the intervention and the quality of work being done. Umahi directed the Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) to the President from both regions to decorate the bridge with Tinubu's pictures. This directive aims to showcase the President's commitment to the development and maintenance of Nigeria's infrastructure.
The rehabilitation of the First Niger Bridge is a significant project that aims to restore the bridge's structural integrity and ensure its continued use as a major transport route. With the additional measures announced by Umahi, the bridge is expected to be safer and more secure for users. The project is also expected to improve the overall aesthetic appeal of the bridge and its surroundings.
Key points
- Nigeria's Minister of Works directs display of President Bola Tinubu's pictures on First Niger Bridge
- Umahi orders removal of illegal advertisements from the bridge
- Additional measures announced to improve bridge's safety and aesthetics
