FG Orders CCTV, Solar Lights Installation On First Niger Bridge

The federal government has ordered the immediate installation of CCTV cameras and solar-powered streetlights on the First Niger Bridge to curb vandalism and theft of critical infrastructure components.

The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, gave the directive during an on-the-spot inspection of the First and Second Niger bridges as part of his monitoring of ongoing construction works around the bridges.

Umahi expressed concern over the vandalism and theft of bolts, expansion joints, and iron bars that hold the First Niger Bridge together, describing the development as dangerous.

He said the new CCTV system would transmit live footage to relevant officials and the police, enabling security agencies to identify and arrest suspected vandals.

The minister also directed the Controller of Works in Anambra State, Timothy Emenike, to procure and replace the affected bolts immediately, with welding works to commence afterwards.

Umahi explained that the bridge’s movement was normal and linked to its bearings, dismissing concerns that the structure was shaking dangerously. However, he warned that removing critical components could compromise its safety.

He said solar-powered streetlights and CCTV cameras would be installed across the bridge, with the surveillance system linked to the police and accessible to relevant officials.

The minister also inspected the Second Niger Bridge, where he visited an area threatened by erosion and ordered the immediate arrest of anyone found excavating sand around the bridge.

Umahi warned vandals and illegal sand miners against undermining government infrastructure, stressing that the federal government would not continue investing in projects only for them to be damaged by criminal activities.