FG Boosts Security on Niger Bridges with CCTV, Solar Lights Against Vandals

The Federal Government has mandated the immediate deployment of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras and solar-powered streetlights across the First Niger Bridge. This directive aims to tackle the widespread vandalism and theft of crucial infrastructure components. Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, issued the order on Thursday following an on-the-spot assessment of both the First and Second Niger bridges, as part of his routine monitoring of ongoing construction projects.

Umahi voiced serious apprehension regarding the destruction of bolts, expansion joints, and iron bars that are vital for the structural integrity of the First Niger Bridge, labeling the acts as extremely hazardous. He explained that the new CCTV network would transmit live feeds directly to relevant officials and law enforcement, enabling security agencies to swiftly identify and apprehend suspected vandals.

During his inspection, Umahi remarked, "We became aware of this vandalism through social media. We extend our gratitude to the public for bringing this critical issue to our attention. The bolts anchoring this bridge have been vandalized and stolen, along with the overhead steel bar which has been disconnected – a situation even more perilous. Repairing this will be exceptionally challenging because the bridge is under tension, and manipulating it further could compromise its members. People often claim the bridge is shaking, but that is a normal characteristic due to its bearing; all bridges exhibit some movement. The bridge currently bears significant dead load due to the asphalt layer."

The Minister instructed Timothy Emenike, the Controller of Works in Anambra State, to promptly procure and replace the damaged bolts, with welding operations scheduled to commence thereafter. He further stated, "We will install solar streetlights and CCTV on this bridge, with feeds accessible on your phone and directly linked to the police. Essential maintenance work will also commence on the bridge, necessitating its closure at night during the exercise."

Umahi also visited the Second Niger Bridge, where he examined an area threatened by erosion. He subsequently ordered the immediate arrest of anyone discovered excavating sand near the bridge. The Minister issued a stern warning to vandals and illegal sand miners operating in the vicinity, emphasizing that the Federal Government would not tolerate such activities undermining significant infrastructure investments.

"I am not concerned about their identity. Anyone found excavating sand in this area must be apprehended immediately," Umahi declared. "The Federal Government constructs these bridges for the people, and we cannot allow vandals to continually destroy them. Moving forward, the entire bridge will be equipped with cameras to ensure these vandals are caught. We will install solar streetlights and CCTV on this bridge, and the footage will be accessible on your phone and connected to the police, so that any individual attempting to vandalize the bridge can be apprehended. I have more pressing duties than to repeatedly inspect the vandalism of federal government infrastructure built for the populace."