Old Bridge, Makurdi

The Old Bridge stretches across the Benue River with a span of 2,584 feet, connecting the northern and southern sections of Makurdi through dual transportation modes.

Sir William Arrol & Co completed this engineering project in 1932, replacing the Nigerian railway's ferry service and establishing a permanent crossing point over the Benue River.

The bridge marks a central meeting point where residents of Makurdi gather for social interactions and traditional fishing activities along the riverbank.

The structure maintains separate lanes for vehicles and trains, with the railway component built to a 3-foot-6-inch gauge specification for regional transportation.

During its inauguration in 1932, this £1,000,000 infrastructure project ranked as the longest bridge in Africa and represented British engineering capabilities in colonial territories.

GPS coordinates: 7.74190,8.54070

Latest update: November 28, 2025 14:29