The Federal Government has prohibited sand mining within a 10-kilometre radius of the River Niger as part of measures to protect the First and Second Niger bridges from structural damage.

Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced the directive on Friday in Asaba, Delta State, during the inauguration of the Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) Monitoring Centre for the Second Niger Bridge.

Umahi said the decision was approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to preserve critical national assets and prevent activities capable of undermining the integrity of the bridges.

He disclosed that tolling on the Second Niger Bridge would remain suspended until all access roads on the Anambra and Delta flanks were fully completed.

“The toll plaza is ready, but toll collection will not commence until we finish the access roads and bypasses leading to the bridge,” the minister stated.

He explained that the newly installed CCTV system was designed to enhance security along the corridor, adding that there would be no police checkpoints on the highway.

“Security agencies will operate from the monitoring centre and respond to emergencies within five minutes,” Umahi assured.

The minister directed the Delta State Police Command to enforce the ban on sand mining and ensure the arrest and prosecution of violators.

Speaking at the event, the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, commended the Federal Government for completing the bridge project, describing it as a major boost to commerce and national integration.

Also, the Chairman of Anambra State Council of Traditional Rulers, Igwe Chidubem Iweka of Obosi, noted that the opening of the bridge had significantly reduced congestion on the old Niger Bridge, particularly during the festive season.

He expressed confidence that the CCTV facility would improve safety for motorists and appealed for the speedy completion of the remaining access roads.