Frequently Asked Questions
Interested in Volunteering?
Answering Your Questions About Volunteering in Egbe
How Do I Become a Volunteer?
Volunteers are able to serve at Egbe under Egbe Medical Mission, World Medical Mission, or SIM. Contact Lisette Ruiz – lruiz@egbemission.org to discuss your interest.
Do I Need a Travel Visa to Volunteer?
Yes, a travel visa is needed to travel to Nigeria. We will provide specific information to assist you in applying for your visa, as well as provide you with a Pre-Travel Guide to assist you in preparing for your trip.
How Would I Get to Egbe, Nigeria?
Volunteers depart from US/Canadian locations and fly to Abuja, Nigeria, on either Lufthansa or Air France through Frankfurt, Germany, or Paris, France. Airport pick-up and overnight accommodation in Abuja is arranged, as well as transportation to Egbe on the following day. (Egbe is 7-9 hour drive from Abuja.)
Where Would I Stay When Volunteering?
You will stay in a furnished guest house or one of the volunteer houses on the hospital compound. Meals, daily housekeeping, and laundry are provided.
Is it Safe to Volunteer in Nigeria?
The security situation of the country is monitored regularly. You will be advised of any security precautions necessary and will be expected to follow them. However, volunteers and missionaries are welcome at Egbe and will be greeted warmly. The medical complex is gated with a security wall surrounding the perimeter. Guards are located at the main entrances as well as throughout the medical complex to guide visitors.
Have More Questions?
We’ve tried to answer some of the most common questions we receive. But, we understand there are many more. Please send us your question(s) below.
Oftentimes it’s not the big things that we do for others, it’s the little things like a gentle touch, a warm smile, or even just being there and wanting to help that are how we can be the hands and feet of Jesus.
- ECWA Egbe Hospital Volunteer
What is the Climate Like?
Nigeria is located just north of the equator in West Africa and enjoys a tropical climate. There are two well marked seasons in Nigeria; rainy season and dry season. November − March is the dry season with daytime temperatures that can exceed 100°. December is the coolest month, with dry, dusty winds, called harmattan. The hottest and most humid months are February and March. April − October is the rainy season with lower peak temperatures between 75°−95°.
What Would I Do As a Volunteer?
Medical – Qualified doctors/nurses can work under the Medical Directors leadership providing specialty teaching/training on patient care and use of equipment; work in out-patient department, on the wards, in the eye clinic, pharmacy or laboratory; inventory equipment, organize medical records. Specialized technicians also needed: lab, x-ray, ultrasound, biomedical, physiotherapy. Nurse Educators and Clinical Instructions provide both bedside demonstrations and practical clinical training, along with lectures.
Construction/Maintenance – Volunteers work alongside national tradespeople in the areas of carpentry, welding, masonry, brick work, plumbing, electrical, excavation, vehicle and mechanical work, small engine repair, ceramic tiling, or completing the finishes in renovating/building infrastructure.
Non-Medical or Non-Construction – Use your office or accounting skills to assist the Revitalization Office Manager. Support the Chaplaincy; conduct patient prayer ministry; support the Guest House facility, help in cleaning, organizing, sorting, labeling, inventorying equipment and tools, organizing data, training house help, sewing, or teaching skills.
Ministry – Volunteers can support the chaplaincy program; participate in morning devotionals with staff; lead a short devotional or Bible study, fellowship with Nigerian believers; spend time encouraging and praying with hospital staff; support other ministries in town including the Music Academy, CARE Africa activities, and participate in outreach to Fulani villages.
How Much Would It Cost?
The cost for airfare and visas are approximately USD $2,300.00 per person. In-country costs for transportation, accommodation and food vary depending on the size of your group. The volunteer is responsible for all expenses. You will be provided with a budget worksheet detailing the approximate cost.
Is there Water, Electricity, Internet?
Running water is available 24/7. The nominal voltage is 220 volts, 50 hertz. The actual voltage is usually less, varying between 120-200 volts. Items designed for 220/240 volts run fine most of the time, and most items designed for 120 volts, will run fine from a household 220-110 v transformer. Electricity is currently guaranteed for a specified number of hours a day, and intermittent throughout the day depending on the national power. Internet is available through StarLink.
What Language is Spoken at the Hospital and College?
English is spoken by most Nigerians.
Do I Need Immunizations?
Yes, proof of yellow fever vaccination is required to enter the country. Malaria oral prophylaxis is strongly recommended. Other vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B (especially if you are a healthcare worker and might be exposed to blood), Typhoid Fever, Tetanus Diphtheria / Measles / Polio vaccines – booster doses as needed, Covid-19; Rabis (if you are staying beyond 3 months).
Is Medical/Evacuation Travel Insurance Needed?
Travel health insurance coverage that provides for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains is required. Check with your current insurance provider to see if you will be covered overseas. Failure to obtain appropriate insurance puts your trip at risk.
