The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), in collaboration with the Anambra and Delta State Police Commands, has launched a comprehensive traffic management strategy to mitigate the perennial gridlock experienced on the Niger Bridges, connecting Onitsha and Asaba, especially during the festive season. This proactive measure aims to ensure seamless vehicular movement and enhance road safety for commuters traversing these critical arteries. The initiative is a product of high-level discussions between FRSC Sector Commander for Anambra State, Corps Commander Joyce Alexander, and the Police Commissioners of both Anambra and Delta States, CP Nnaghe Itam and CO BS Oluwafemi respectively. Recognizing the significance of these bridges as vital transportation links and anticipating the surge in traffic volume during the yuletide, the stakeholders have crafted a multi-pronged approach to address potential bottlenecks and ensure a smooth flow of traffic.
Central to this collaborative effort is the temporary removal of all checkpoints on the Head Bridge, scheduled from December 18, 2024, to January 10, 2025. Checkpoints, while serving security purposes, often contribute to traffic congestion. By temporarily suspending these checkpoints during the peak travel period, authorities aim to minimize disruptions and facilitate free-flowing traffic. This strategic decision recognizes the need to balance security considerations with the imperative of ensuring efficient traffic management during a period of high traffic volume. Complementing this measure is the establishment of mobile surveillance along the Second Niger Bridge axis. This dynamic approach allows for flexible deployment of resources to address emerging traffic situations and maintain a constant vigilance over traffic flow.
Furthermore, all police checkpoints on the Delta side of the Old Niger Bridge will be dismantled for the duration of the festive period. This measure is aimed at streamlining traffic flow on this critical access point and preventing bottlenecks that could impede movement. The combined effect of removing checkpoints on both the Head Bridge and the Delta side of the Old Niger Bridge is expected to significantly reduce travel time and improve the overall commuting experience for travelers. The strategic importance of these bridges necessitates a coordinated approach to traffic management, and this collaborative initiative demonstrates a commitment to addressing the challenges posed by increased traffic volume during the festive season.
In addition to these structural adjustments, the FRSC and the Police Commands will deploy a substantial number of officers for joint traffic control operations on both bridges throughout the yuletide season. This increased presence of law enforcement personnel is designed to ensure adherence to traffic regulations, manage traffic flow effectively, and respond promptly to any incidents that may arise. The visible presence of officers is also expected to deter reckless driving and encourage responsible road behavior, thereby contributing to enhanced road safety. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of both agencies to prioritizing the safety and well-being of road users during the festive period.
FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, has commended the Anambra Sector Commander for spearheading this collaborative initiative and expressed confidence in its potential to significantly improve traffic conditions and enhance safety on the Niger Bridges during the festive period. He emphasized the importance of cooperation between traffic management agencies and urged motorists to comply with traffic regulations and cooperate with officials to ensure a smooth and safe travel experience for everyone. The Corps Marshal’s endorsement underscores the FRSC’s commitment to fostering inter-agency collaboration and employing innovative strategies to address traffic challenges nationwide.
This proactive partnership between the FRSC and the Anambra and Delta State Police Commands signifies a concerted effort to address the persistent traffic congestion on the Niger Bridges, especially during peak travel periods like the festive season. The comprehensive strategy, encompassing checkpoint removal, mobile surveillance, increased deployment of personnel, and inter-agency collaboration, demonstrates a commitment to ensuring safe and efficient travel for all commuters. The success of this initiative will rely on the cooperation of motorists and their adherence to traffic regulations. This collaborative endeavor serves as a model for addressing traffic challenges in other parts of the country and underscores the importance of proactive planning and inter-agency cooperation in ensuring safe and efficient transportation networks.
