We currently support the work of two hospitals in Nigeria, both of which were founded by the mission in the last century. They are both local rural hospitals that offer a full range of medical services and methods and are run by a professional well trained staff. Like most rural hospitals in Africa they are basic, the equipment can be old and range of medicines limited but these facilities are improving.

Our Medical Elective programme is flexible and as we are based in Belfast you can talk to us easily about the various options to tailor your elective time. We provide a full orientation each June and you will be supervised in country by the hospital manager and the doctor in charge.

The staff are keen for you to get involved in all the medical work, from maternity, to surgery; daily clinics to infectious tropical diseases. There is also a vibrant community at each of the hospitals. Many staff live on site and they have regular times of fellowship, in which electives can play a full part. There are villages in the surrounding countryside with many young people and children, for whom you can organise bible clubs and activities during your free time.

Holley Memorial Hospital

Holley Memorial Hospital (H.M.H.) at Ochadamu is in Kogi State in the central belt of Nigeria. 

Founded in 1950 in response to the needs of those suffering from leprosy H.M.H. is recognised by the Nigerian Government as a place of excellence in the treatment of leprosy.  This department is run in partnership with the Leprosy Mission International.

Today, however, the hospital has grown to be a large general hospital providing specialist services in surgery, maternity and obstetrics, orthopaedics, ophthalmics and caring for an increasing number suffering from TB and HIV/AIDS.  A large outpatients department cares for the growing local population.  Alongside this, faithful witness is given to Jesus Christ through word and action.  

 

A School of Nursing is in development at the hospital and should be functioning within the near future.  In partnership with Mission Africa,  H.M.H. has recently updated the facilities of the pharmacy and operating theatre.

 

As a Christian hospital, H.M.H. has a church on the compound.  This provides pastoral care to meet the spiritual needs of patients and staff.  Many who have come to H.M.H. for medical care have come to faith in Jesus during their stay.

This hospital is suitable for up to 3 - 4 medical electives at any one time. It has good accommodation for visitors and all the meals can be provided! For projects and reports it is not usually suitable for statistical studies as there is not a broad enough patient pool. This hospital has hosted numerous electives in the last 5 years and is a good destination to experience African medicine.

Ekpene Obom Hospital

Ekpene Obom Hospital is in the south-east of Nigeria, in Akwa Ibom State.  Like H.M.H. it also began as a specialist leprosy hospital but now also provides for more general medical needs.

The good news is that leprosy can now be cured.  However, early diagnosis is key, as any delay in treatment can result in permanent disablement.

As a specialist hospital, medical students come here for workshops and to gain first hand experience of leprosy.  This, alongside the experience gained in the general hospital, gives them a excellent experience for their future medical career.

Ekpene Obom is a smaller hospital but still has a range of medical services as well as leprosy clinics. It’s only really suitable to those who have a particular interest in learning more about the treatment of Leprosy. It is also more remote than Holley Memorial and would only be suitable for people who want an ‘off the beaten track’ experience. It would not be suitable for people traveling alone.

Arrangements

Mission Africa are happy to arrange flights, visa, insurance, accommodation, food and travel within the country. The cost for 6 weeks can range from £1200 -1400. If you are planning to travel afterwards you can arrange your own flights but we will still help arrange visas, accommodation, food and travel in Nigeria.

For more info contact Jonny at serve@missionafrica.org.uk or fill in the response form.