The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, on Friday commissioned the Solar-powered CCTV Monitoring Centre at the Second Niger Bridge, saying the facility marks a major step in strengthening road security and maximising the bridge’s effectiveness.
Umahi said while the bridge was substantially completed before May 29, 2023, the Tinubu government “fully and totally completed” all outstanding components, including access roads and security infrastructure.
“We had issues with tolling because the access roads were not done. Today, Mr. President is constructing the 17.5-kilometre bypass that will divert traffic from Asaba township,” he said, describing the project as Section 2A of the Second Niger Bridge.
He added that the ₦179 billion bypass project, handled by CCCC, was redesigned with reinforced concrete pavement, solar lighting and CCTV, noting that the contractor had surpassed expectations.
On security, Umahi explained that the CCTV centre would enable technology-driven policing with rapid response.
“No security man will be on the road. They will monitor from the viewing centre, and response time will be less than five minutes,” he said, adding that sand mining within a 10-kilometre radius of the bridge had been banned by the federal government.
The Delta State Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola, thanked the federal government for handing over the facility to the police.
“This will make our job easier in checking attacks along this corridor. It will deter crime, reduce accidents and ensure free flow of traffic,” Aina said.
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Also speaking, the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Epiphany Azinge, said the CCTV system would curb vandalism and strengthen security in the area.
“This will enhance the security architecture along Asaba and help prevent crime and vandalisation,” he said.
Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council and Igwe of Obosi, Igwe Chidubem Iweka (Eze Iweka III), said the installation of the CCTV cameras and solar panels had restored public confidence in the bridge.
“Before now, traffic was very slim because people were afraid to use the bridge. Once the CCTV and solar facilities were installed, vehicles began to ply the bridge freely,” he said.
The traditional rulers commended President Tinubu and the works minister for the intervention, describing it as a major boost to safety and economic activity across the Niger Bridge corridor.
