FG MOVES TO SECURE FIRST NIGER BRIDGE WITH CCTV AFTER VANDALISM

The Federal Government has ordered the installation of closed-circuit television cameras on the First Niger Bridge as part of measures to prevent further vandalism and theft of critical components.

The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, gave the directive during an inspection of the First and Second Niger Bridges, where he expressed concern over the removal of bolts, expansion joints, iron bars and other components from the First Niger Bridge.

Umahi said the government was alerted to the situation after images showing the vandalised sections of the bridge surfaced on social media. He thanked members of the public who brought the condition of the bridge to the attention of the authorities.

According to the minister, some bolts holding the bridge together had been removed, while an overhead steel bar had also been disconnected. He warned that the damage could pose a serious threat to the safety and structural integrity of the bridge.

Umahi directed the Controller of Works in Anambra State, Timothy Emenike, to immediately procure the required replacement bolts and commence repairs. He also ordered that welding works be carried out without delay to restore the affected sections.

The minister stressed that government could not continue investing heavily in infrastructure only for vandals to destroy the facilities. He therefore directed that the entire First Niger Bridge should be fitted with CCTV cameras to assist security agencies in monitoring activities around the structure and identifying suspected vandals.

The Federal Government also plans to improve lighting around the bridge, with solar-powered streetlights expected to form part of the security measures being introduced.

During the inspection, Umahi also visited the Second Niger Bridge, where he raised concerns over erosion affecting part of its foundation. The condition was described as a potential danger to motorists using the bridge.

The minister’s inspection highlights the government’s renewed focus on protecting major infrastructure from vandalism and other forms of damage that could increase maintenance costs and endanger the public.

The installation of surveillance cameras is expected to strengthen monitoring around the First Niger Bridge and make it easier for authorities to detect and respond to attempts to steal or damage its components.

The government has also called for greater public cooperation in protecting national infrastructure, stressing that residents and communities have an important role to play in reporting suspicious activities and preventing vandalism.