Where do I begin? It feels as if I’ve always known my Nigerian friends and family. From the moment I arrived as a volunteer nurse, I felt deeply welcomed into a community that is as warm and vibrant as it is resilient. My Egbe friends made it easy to adjust, patiently teaching me the basics of their language and culture, and sharing their joy and laughter with me daily.
One of my favorite things about Egbe is the joy that fills the air, even amidst hardships. Life here isn’t easy—at the hospital, in the community, or in the surrounding villages, there are challenges we face together. But when we gather for sports, entertainment, or even brief conversations, joy shines through. We laugh often and deeply, taking every opportunity to strengthen relationships and celebrate life together.
Serving as a Volunteer Nurse: The Value of Time
If you’re planning to come to Egbe, my advice is to stay as long as you can—ideally more than two weeks. It takes time to adjust to the hospital systems and build the relationships necessary to serve effectively. My journey included working in every ward except the ICU, and I also had the privilege of supporting special campaigns like eye clinics and orthopedic events.
Spending a longer period in Egbe allowed me to truly learn the ropes. After seeing processes repeated and building trust with the staff, I was able to step in as an asset to the team. The time invested was invaluable; it enabled me to understand the unique needs of each department and contribute meaningfully to their work.
Engaging Beyond the Hospital
Serving in Egbe isn’t just about medical care. It’s also about immersing yourself in the community and sharing your passions and skills. Outside the hospital, I found joy in giving guitar lessons, teaching art classes, leading swimming lessons, hosting movie nights, playing sports, and tutoring nursing students.
One particularly meaningful relationship I built was with a nursing student estranged from her Muslim family due to her conversion to Christianity. Mentoring her was a privilege—I supported her spiritually, emotionally, and even financially when needed. Moments like these reminded me that service isn’t limited to a job description; it’s about living life alongside others and offering encouragement and love.
A Journey of Eternal Impact
My time in Egbe as a volunteer nurse wasn’t meaningful because of any special service I provided. It was meaningful because I had the opportunity to live among brothers and sisters in Christ, discovering what it means to serve God in a new culture. The people I met became dear friends who will always hold a special place in my heart.
I came to Egbe seeking a small taste of long-term missions, but I left longing for more. It’s my prayer that God will allow me to return to ECWA Hospital in the future, to continue advancing His kingdom through compassionate medical care. For now, I carry with me the joy, laughter, and love of a community that has forever shaped my heart and faith.
Aleah K., Volunteer Nurse
Interested in joining the Egbe community as a volunteer? Learn more about our opportunities and how you can make an eternal impact by visiting our volunteer page. Together, we can advance the kingdom of God and share His light and love in Nigeria.
