obj was created by alias wavefront (the original creators of maya) therefore maya should read obj in theory.

I have found though that many other developers do not always adhere to the obj standard and maya is VERY strict on its implementation.

both n88tr and bullets suggestions are good.

I'd try this....

- import into 3ds (if you have it) and then re-export to obj.

- after import look in the outliner and if there is something there select it and press the f-key to frame up on it. As bullet says it may just be too large or too small to be visible with the default units.

- if you can convert to fbx then maya also has an fbx importer and you should be able to see it in that format as well.