ASSESSMENT OF THE INFLUENCE OF RIGASA TRAIN STATION ON THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES OF RIGASA COMMUNITY, IGABI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

This study assesses the influence of Rigasa Train Station on the socio-economic activities of Rigasa community in Igabi Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Since the commissioning of the Kaduna–Abuja standard gauge rail line, with its terminus at Rigasa, the community has experienced observable changes in commercial activity, employment patterns, and land values. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design, using structured questionnaires administered to 200 randomly selected residents and traders within Rigasa, complemented by key informant interviews and direct observation. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics (frequency counts, percentages, and mean scores) presented in tables and charts. Findings reveal that the train station has significantly boosted small-scale trading, transportation services (commercial motorcycles/tricycles and car park operations), and petty commerce around the station premises, while also contributing to a rise in house rents and commercial plot values in adjoining neighbourhoods. However, the study also found challenges including poor sanitation around the station, inadequate security, ticket racketeering, and limited direct employment of indigenes by the rail operator. The study concludes that Rigasa Train Station has had a net positive influence on the socio-economic life of the host community, though its full potential is constrained by infrastructural and management gaps. It recommends deliberate local-content employment policies, improved station facilities, and stronger security collaboration between the Nigerian Railway Corporation, security agencies, and the host community.