This paper reviews the phased development of railways in Nigeria to expound the past and contemporary challenges that have hampered the growth of the sector, and further present prospects to promote the sustainable development of Nigerianrailways. This study seeks to critically examine the role of railway transportation in Nigeria's socio-economicdevelopment using Ujevwu and Itakpe stations as case studies. Nigeria’s ambitious railway modernization program has reached a pivotal milestone in 2025, as the federal government accelerates completion of the transformative Lagos-Kano and Abuja-Calabar rail corridors. May 13, 2025 · We recognise that transportation is a critical factor in economicgrowth and development. It is a wealth-creating industry on its own, and inadequate transportation limits a nation’s ability to utilise its natural resources. Sep 18, 2025 · With a comprehensive railway master plan in place, the NRC is poised to revolutionize Nigeria’srailsystem, promoting economicgrowth, reducing road congestion, and enhancing overall transportation efficiency. This study critically evaluates Nigeria's readiness for implementing high-speed rail (HSR) systems, examining operational barriers, strategic opportunities, and potential economic impacts. Does railway development contribute to socio-economic growth in Nigeria?Notwithstanding, the strategic development of railways offers prospects in contributing to the socio-economic growth of the Nation, especially in penurious regions. The transformation of the rail company itself had an impact on Nigerian society.Why is Nigeria losing its railways?After that, the fortunes of rail transport in Nigeria began to decline rapidly and they have not fully recovered. This has been due to a number of factors, including ageing infrastructure, general neglect and mismanagement. These days the railway and its facilities have lost their pride of place in the country’s social, economic and cultural life.Why is rail transport a priority in Nigeria?Rail transport in Nigeria has suffered decades of neglect due to ineffective management. This is especially true of the colonial period and in the postcolonial era up to the late 1960s. But efforts to revive the network... This study seeks to critically examine the role of railway transportation in Nigeria's socio-economicdevelopment using Ujevwu and Itakpe stations as case studies. Nigeria’s ambitious railway modernization program has reached a pivotal milestone in 2025, as the federal government accelerates completion of the transformative Lagos-Kano and Abuja-Calabar rail corridors.