Volunteering in Nigeria! Go Volunteer Africa, the leading and largest volunteer travel organization in Africa welcomes you to Nigeria. Volunteering in Nigeria is an amazing experience. Experience the blend of exciting adventure tours and meaningful volunteering work under this specially designed volunteer program.
We offer wide range of volunteer opportunities in Nigeria for international volunteers. The volunteering opportunities in Nigeria include Teaching, Women Empowerment, Community Development, Childcare, Medical and Healthcare. The projects are designed in a way that the host community gets to benefit from the skills shared by the volunteer and the volunteers can gain the best quality life changing experiences of the lifetime.
VOLUNTEER IN NIGERIA PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Coach sports and games
- Teach English language
- Take up a medical care job
- Work with childcare projects
- Work with our arts and culture projects
- Work with women empowerment projects
- Get involved in our environment conservation project
- Visit the numerous historic and geological sites of the region
Nigeria is often called the “Giant of Africa.” This name comes from the vastness of its land, the diversity of its people and languages, its huge population (the largest in Africa), and its oil and other natural resources. Nigeria is the most populous nation in Africa and a vibrant country with huge potential. Yet despite being the largest economy in Africa, there is poverty amid the plenty making for an exciting meaningful volunteer experience. Nigeria is one of West Africa’s crown jewels in which traditions are still respected.
Volunteering in Nigeria is not as dangerous as the media might suggest. The country suffers from an image of constant civil strife, scams and political instability. To dismiss Nigeria based on those criteria is unjust.
Go Volunteer Africa has teamed up with several non-government charity and nonprofit organizations across Nigeria that are working to improve all areas of Nigerian society, from helping women, children, rural communities and impoverished rural towns and villages.
Go Volunteer Africa’s volunteer opportunities are affordable and low cost to give everyone an opportunity to make a difference. The first volunteers will begin their volunteer work in Nigeria in January 2023. The international volunteers will live and work here, supporting local communities in their efforts to fight poverty.
NIGERIA FAST FACTS
Nigeria, officially the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a country in West Africa. It is geographically situated between the Sahel to the north and the Gulf of Guinea to the south in the Atlantic Ocean. It covers an area of 923,769 square kilometers (356,669 sq mi), with a population of over 211 million. Nigeria borders Niger in the north, Chad in the northeast, Cameroon in the east, and Benin in the west. Nigeria is a federal republic comprising 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, where the capital, Abuja, is located. The largest city in Nigeria is Lagos, one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world and the second-largest in Africa.
- OFFICIAL NAME: Federal Republic of Nigeria
- FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Federal republic
- CAPITAL: Abuja
- POPULATION: 211,452,505
- OFFICIAL LANGUAGE: English
- MONEY: Naira
PEOPLE & CULTURE
There are at least 250 languages spoken in Nigeria and possibly more than 400. Music and art spring from strong tribal roots and are prevalent throughout society. At least 60 percent of Nigerians live below the poverty line, existing on less than a dollar a day. Unfair distribution of the country’s oil wealth, as well as political, ethnic, and religious conflicts have put a strain on Nigerian society.
GEOGRAPHY & NATURE
Nigeria is a patchwork of distinctive regions, including deserts, plains, swamps, mountains, and steamy jungles. It has one of the largest river systems in the world, including the Niger Delta, the third largest delta on Earth.
Much of Nigeria is covered with plains and savannas. These tropical grasslands spread out as far as the eye can see and are interrupted here and there by trees and shrubs. The southwestern plains are home to the Yoruba people, who have lived there for thousands of years.
High on Nigeria’s southern mountains, the slopes are covered by thick rain forest. Green plants grow everywhere, broken by flashes of color from flowers, fruits, birds, and butterflies. This is the home of rare western lowland gorillas, once thought to be extinct in Nigeria.
Nigeria’s diverse landscape makes it ideal for a broad range of plants and animals. Many species live nowhere else on Earth. Unfortunately there aren’t very many national parks in Nigeria and competition for space with humans has left many species on the endangered list.
Why Volunteer in Nigeria?
Poverty is a big problem in Nigeria and the average life expectancy is only 52 years. In rural areas healthcare facilities are lacking, either people have to travel miles to get treatment or the facilities are poor. Hospitals are often under-staffed but there are clinics and community centres run by small charities which help local people.
You might want to help with HIV and AIDS awareness and prevention programs, this country has the second highest number of people infected with HIV and AIDS in the world and more needs to be done to help. There are approximately 5 million Nigerian nationals infected with the disease and there are projects working to help treat people and also stop further spread. You might get to work in a team raising awareness within communities about the importance of safe sex – this will leave a lasting legacy.
Go Volunteer Africa also offer educational volunteer programs in Nigeria, you can teach and help in classrooms or even work in a management role to train local staff to improve their qualifications. Without international volunteers a lot of projects wouldn’t exist or will not be sustained.
By volunteering in Nigeria with Go Volunteer Africa, you will not only provide services to others, but you’ll also gain from a cultural experience in a unique destination.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES IN NIGERIA
Volunteer work in Nigeria is based throughout a variety of communities in and around the city of Abuja. One of the many benefits of volunteering in Nigeria is that volunteers can work directly with the friendly communities, helping them overcome the many social problems.
People with specific skills are really welcomed to apply and your experience will be put to good use on the ground. However most placements do not require any previous experience but some organizations specifically place skilled professionals in certain roles.
Volunteering in Nigeria Healthcare: Although Nigeria has a relatively strong economy, the state and local governments in rural areas are absent. There are few hospitals and under-staffed clinics. Administering basic vaccines and assisting clinics and regional hospitals is a rewarding volunteer activity.
Volunteering in Nigeria Childcare Support: Apply to help children in Nigeria. On childcare projects you can support and help abandoned children, street children, HIV + children and kids from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Volunteering in Nigeria Community Development: Income inequality, AIDS education, child-care, and other issues hinder community development. Working in small community projects or small-scale industries to build and support a community is a difficult but rewarding and worthwhile experience.
Volunteering in Nigeria Youth Development & Education: Youth support through education is crucial to prevent the poor from falling into the black hole of poverty. Tutoring or teaching in small, elementary schools is but one way to help promote education.
Volunteering in Nigeria Building & Construction: Apply up to join a community building and construction program in Nigeria. There are lots of really rewarding programs available where you can play a role in help improve living conditions and facilities on short and long term placements.
Volunteering in Nigeria Conservation & Environmental: There are real problems facing conservation with the destruction of rainforests and natural habitats, pollution and an increasing human population. If you would like to help conservation efforts around the world search volunteer opportunities today.
PROJECT LOCATION & SAFETY
Go Volunteer Africa offers volunteer programs in Abuja and other more remote regions of Nigeria. Abuja is not dangerous as it’s the home of most diplomats and politician so there’s plenty of security there. You might also like to view our volunteer programs in Cameroon and Benin– these are neighboring countries and also safe destinations.
ARRIVAL & AIRPORT PICKUP
After you have applied, booked and confirmed your placement, please book your flights to arrive at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. A member of staff from our local partner organization will meet you on arrival at Airport. This airport services numerous international carriers. Nigeria has good connections to destinations throughout Europe, the Asia- Pacific region, USA and Africa.
ORIENTATION
Orientation and Placement will be done the next day. Generally, your volunteer orientation is an overview of the project’s mission, expectations and introduction to the local community and project site. Following your arrival in Nigeria you will be given a presentation by the co-coordinating project team to prepare you for the work you will be doing.
GROUP VOLUNTEER TRIPS
Get some friends together or organize a group from your school and embark on this incredible adventure! Discounts are offered on any group of 5+ participants on Nigeria volunteering program.
LONGTERM VOLUNTEER WORK
Please contact us for more information about our long-term volunteer work in Nigeria. We will guide you on the best times of the year, what to pack, and what extra health precautions to keep in mind and all logistics.
VOLUNTEER ACCOMMODATION
Volunteers are provided accommodation in a volunteer house or in a homestay accommodation managed by the local coordinating team. Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) are provided to the participants from Monday – Sunday. The accommodations are neat and clean. Accommodation is shared amongst volunteers on the ‘same gender sharing’ basis rooms. Wifi internet, warm water is not guaranteed.
The homes are close to useful amenities like banks, ATM’s, currency exchanges, restaurants, cafes and shopping places. All placements are around 10 – 30 minutes from the accommodation. At some point volunteers might be on the move and hence we suggest also bringing a sleeping mat and sleeping bag/pillow for travel and weekends away on adventures. Bathrooms are usually shared. There is a lounge area for relaxing, reading, or watching movies.
AGE REQUIREMENT
Our program is for anyone eighteen years and above who loves service above self and social experiences with people from all over the world. We also accepts volunteers of 16+ years of age if they are in a group with a guardian or supervisor above 25years. Volunteers under 16 years old are only considered when accompanied by a parent/guardian. There isn’t a maximum age limit, though a reasonable fitness level is necessary. Families are encouraged to apply and are welcome!
VISAS
Visitors to Nigeria require a visa (applied for in advance and a letter of invitation from party in Nigeria) unless they come from one of the visa exempt countries. All visitors must hold a passport valid for 6 months. You can enter and volunteer in Nigeria on a tourist visa, on arrival you might be required to show a valid passport, return plane tickets and proof of funds ( a bank statement).
Holders of written e-Visa approval issued by Immigration Authority Headquarters in Abuja, can obtain a visa on arrival, provided holding a visa application form and e-Visa application payment receipt and holding an invitation letter from Nigerian company accepting immigration responsibilities.
Nigeria is a safe destination which has got a bad reputation in the media, be sure to check latest safety information before booking though. The language barrier might be an issue in this destination, there are hundreds of local languages and its a good ideas to take a phrase book. The in-country staff will be able to speak English though. This is an experience which will stay with you forever!
INSURANCE & HEALTH
You’ll need to buy appropriate travel insurance covering your participation on the program. You won’t be able to go without the right travel insurance so double check to avoid disappointment. Please make sure that you’re covered for the whole duration of your trip – from the day you leave your home to the day you return.
Volunteers in Nigeria should be sure to receive the proper vaccinations, which include: hepatitis A and B, typhoid, polio, yellow fever, meningitis, and rabies. Bringing a mosquito net to sleep under is also encouraged.
WEEKENDS AND FREE-TIME
Over the weekends or evenings, participants are free to eat out and explore the different delights that Nigeria has to offer. We arrange city day tours and long-weekend tours. No matter what your interests, there is always something for everyone to enjoy!
PROJECT QUICK FACTS
| Availability: | Project open all year round |
| Duration: | Minimum 2 weeks commitment |
| Age Limits: | Minimum 18yrs or older for solo travelers. |
| Minimum Age: | Families are encouraged to apply |
| Dates: | Flexible start and end dates |
| Arrival dates: | One day before the start date |
| Airport Arrival: | Airport pickup, meet and greet by GVA partner representative |
| Working Days: | Monday – Friday – 5 days a week, 3-5 hours in a day |
| Weekends: | Travel / Sightseeing NOT included in program cost |
| Accommodation: | Host Family or volunteer house |
| Meals: | Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily |
| Support: | Pre-departure guide, In-country staff available 24/7 |
| Location: | Abuja |
| Language: | English |
IN A NUTSHELL
Volunteering in Nigeria with Go Volunteer Africa is affordable, low cost and budget friendly. The volunteer opportunities in Nigeria are meaningful and life changing both to the volunteer and the host community.
Go Volunteer Africa was ranked as the best volunteer organization in Nigeria. All volunteer programs in Nigeria are community driven and managed by the local coordinating teams and this will give you a chance to get to know local people and really help those in need.
Go Volunteer Africa is among the top NGOs looking for volunteers in Nigeria. Most volunteer projects in Nigeria are located throughout the country in places like Lagos and in more rural areas.
Volunteer in Nigeria with Africa’s leading and largest volunteer travel organization. Volunteer Jobs in Nigeria are available throughout the year. Do volunteer charity work in Nigeria, empower communities and vulnerable individuals, change both your lives and the recipients’ of your generosity.
PROGRAM FEE: (USD$)
Program Fee Excludes:
- Flights
- Visas
- Insurance
- Personal Expenses
- Airport Drop off (Can be arranged upon request)
APPLICATION & PLACEMENT BOOKING FEE
Please Note: An application and placement booking fee of $180 is charged over and above the program fee as an application payment to secure your placement.
The fee covers: Administration Costs, Placement Booking & Confirmation, Pre-departure support & documentation, 24-hour international HQ back-up.
HOW TO APPLY
To start the process fill Volunteer application form and submit it for consideration and book your placement. For more information on how to get enrolled for the volunteering experience of a lifetime contact us. Or Give us a call | WhatsApp | Telegram | Viber | Imo at +254-796-786292 to talk to a Program Specialist.