Visiting the Nigerian railway quarters in Jos, where my father Chief Barrister John Chukwudi Metchie (SNR) worked as a senior clark from the late 50s to the mid 60s, was a trip down memory lane. This place held a significant role in my family’s history, as my father’s time here not only laid the foundation for his career but also granted him a life-changing scholarship to Keiv State University in the Soviet Union. It was intriguing to explore the offices and living quarters of the railway quarters, knowing that my grandfather had also played a role in the Nigerian railway service as a station superintendent many years before my dad and years after.

As I entered the Nigerian railway quarters, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. The place had a unique charm, combining historical significance with an aura of bygone decades. The architecture reflected the colonial influence, with well-preserved buildings standing as a testament to the railway’s grandeur during its heydays.

Walking through the offices, it almost felt like stepping back in time. The furniture, the ambiance, and the remnants of a bygone era all served as reminders of the work my father committed himself to during his time here. It was fascinating to imagine him sitting behind one of those desks, engaging in the administrative duties that ensured the smooth functioning of the railway service.

The railway quarters also housed the living space for employees and their families. Exploring these areas offered a glimpse into the daily lives of the railway workers in that era. The rows of houses, neatly aligned, revealed a sense of community and shared experiences. It was here that my father, with his scholarly pursuits and dedication to his work, found solace and support from fellow railway employees.

One of the most remarkable aspects of my father’s time at the railway quarters was the scholarship he received. The Nigerian railway service recognized his potential and facilitated his journey to Keiv State University in the Soviet Union, where he pursued a degree in Law. This scholarship opened doors and broadened horizons, leading to a successful career and a lifelong passion for justice.

My grandfather, Patrick Agbata Metchie’s role as a station superintendent in the Nigerian railway service added another layer of significance to the visit. His dedication to his job served as an inspiration for the generations that followed. Seeing the place where both my father and grandfather made significant contributions invoked a deep sense of pride and admiration.

Visiting the Nigerian railway quarters in Jos provided a unique opportunity to connect with my family’s history and relive the experiences of my father and grandfather. The glimpse into the offices and living quarters stirred up feelings of nostalgia while reinforcing the impact that the Nigerian railway service had on their lives. It reminded me of the transformative power of education, as my father’s scholarship from the railway quarters propelled him towards a successful career in law. This visit served as a reminder of the legacy of service and dedication that runs in our family and instilled a renewed appreciation for the Nigerian railway’s historical significance.

I met Mr Dangabas Isa, an old man now who had worked in the same place many years ago but now retired. Thank you Sir for your selfless service in Nigerian’s history. Thank you for also taking time to show me around the Railway Quarters. I had the privilege to meet and sit with amazingly friendly men and woman who’s parents and also worked in the Nigerian Railway Services.

I took a few pictures. One of them was a plaque. I was surprised to see that Hon. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa was a Minister in 1954. This era was the pre-colonial times.

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