FG Installs CCTV Cameras on 2nd Niger Bridge, Bans Sand Mining on River Niger

By Praise Chinecherem

The Federal Government has announced ban on mining of sand ten kilometer radius in River Niger as measures to protect the first and second Niger bridges.

Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi disclosed this on Friday in Asaba, Delta state during the commissioning of second Niger bridge CCTV monitoring centre.

He said the decision was taken by the Federal Executive Council as part of efforts to protect critical federal infrastructure across the country.

According to him, tolling on the second Niger bridge will not commence until all access roads at Anambra and Delta State sections are completed.

He added that the CCTV monitoring centre was to ensure adequate security along the Federal highway.

“The tollgate is ready but we won’t start tolling on the road until we complete the access roads and bypass roads that lead to bridge.

“The idea is that there will be no security checkpoints on the road, police and other security agencies will be at the CCTV monitoring centre and provide rapid response to emergencies within five minutes,” he added.

Umahi directed Delta Police Command to ensure implementation of the ban as well as arrest offenders.

The Asagba of Asaba, Prof Epiphany Azinge commended the Federal Government for effectively completing the second Niger bridge and enumerated the socio economic benefits of the project.

Chairman, Anambra State Council of Traditional Rulers and Igwe of Obosi, Chidubem Iweka said the opening of the bridge has reduced traffic on the first bridge and eased movement during and after the yuletide.

Expressing optimism that the installation of the security camera would boost confidence of commuters plying the road, Iweka called for speedy completion of the access roads to the second Niger bridge.

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