Riding the Dragon’s Rails: Unpacking the Impacts of Chinese-Built Railway in Nigeria

Abstract

This research investigates the impacts of China’s development assistance on African development through Nigeria’s Abuja–Kaduna railway, West Africa’s first modern railway constructed with Chinese aid. Grounded in urbanization and dependency theories and utilizing interviews, focused group discussions (FGDs), and a comprehensive literature review, this study evaluates both positive and negative impacts. Findings reveal socio-economic benefits for Nigeria, including employment generation, improved connectivity, and infrastructure renewal, while also identifying challenges such as community displacement and limited technology transfer. This analysis sheds light on China’s role in African railway development, China–Nigeria relations, and the broader implications of Chinese involvement. By enriching empirical knowledge and presenting a balanced view, this study fosters a nuanced understanding of infrastructure development’s role in Africa’s progress.