The Federal Government has banned sand mining within a ten-kilometre radius of the River Niger to protect the First and Second Niger Bridges. This announcement was made by the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, during the commissioning of the CCTV monitoring centre for the Second Niger Bridge in Asaba on Friday.

Umahi explained that the ban was approved by the Federal Executive Council as part of broader efforts to safeguard critical federal infrastructure. The CCTV centre aims to provide rapid security response along the highway, ensuring safer commuting.

He further clarified that tolling on the Second Niger Bridge will not commence until the access roads in Anambra and Delta States are fully completed. The tollgate is ready, but authorities want to avoid delays and ensure proper traffic management before implementation.

Umahi directed the Delta Police Command to enforce the sand mining ban and apprehend violators.

Traditional leaders praised the government’s efforts. The Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, highlighted the socio-economic benefits of the bridge, while the Igwe of Obosi, Chidubem Iweka, noted that the bridge has reduced congestion on the First Niger Bridge and called for the swift completion of the access roads.