SERVE ON A MISSION TRIP

Nigeria Mission Trips

March 2, 2026 – March 11, 2026

June 29, 2026 – July 8, 2026

Young Adult Trip: October 13, 2026 – October 22, 2026

$2,800 (airfare not included)

Come be a part of something impactful as we serve orphaned children, orphaned seniors, and families in Owerri, Nigeria. During this trip, you’ll have the opportunity to bring hope and joy to different villages and communities while experiencing the power of intergenerational connections.

From construction projects and community outreach to medical missions and engaging seniors and children in fun intergenerational programs, there are countless ways to serve. This journey will not only transform their lives but will also transform your life, leaving you encouraged and inspired!

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Mission trip Application
Application

Upon filling out your application, we will reach out to set up a zoom informational call with you. 

Please note: A non-refundable $150 deposit is required before submitting your application. This deposit helps secure your spot and covers initial administrative costs.

 

Payment Due Dates

  • $150 non-refundable trip reservation fee is due upon signing up for a trip
  • 1st half of payment due: 90 days before trip
  • Upon us booking your flight, you will be required to pay the invoice we send you within 24 hours
  • Final payment due: 60 days before trip
 
 

Passport / VISA Requirements

When do I need my passport?
  • Your passport must be valid at least 6 months past the dates of your trip.
You need at least 2 empty pages for stamps. If you travel frequently, please check your passport.
  • Whether you are applying for the first time, or applying for a renewal, please apply immediately. The process can take 12 weeks or more and all fees are the responsibility of the trip participant.
  • Visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html for more information.
  • When you have your passport, please email morgan@h4lworld.org a copy.
Do I need a VISA or other forms before travel?
  • Before applying for your visa, make sure you have a valid passport. You can begin filling out the visa application once you have your passport, but please note that you cannot submit the application until 14 days prior to your trip departure.
 
 
 
What vaccines do I need or should I get prior to traveling?
  • Immunization required is yellow fever. Immunization recommended is polio.
  • All international travelers should research the area they are visiting. Plan to call or visit your primary care physician or a travel medicine specialist at least 4-8 weeks prior to your departure.
  • We recommend starting your research with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. After gathering information, you can then make decisions that are best for you or your family members.
  • You will need to start taking anti-malaria medication before, during and after the trip. Consult the nearest International Travel Clinic for medical advice and services
*The CDC recommends that travelers be up to date with vaccinations common to those living in the United States, such as tetanus and measles/mumps/rubella.
*Hands 4Life employees are not medically trained and are unable to advise you on vaccination or medication decisions.
  • We offer trip discounts for monthly donors
  • $50-100 / month = $450 off trip cost
  • $100+ / month = $750 off trip cost
*We ask for a commitment of at least one year.
**Discount does NOT apply to child sponsors

Fundraise for Your Mission Trip

We believe that where God guides, He provides — and that includes your mission trip! Fundraising is a powerful way to invite others into the journey with you. Whether it’s through hosting events, writing letters, or using social media, there are countless creative ways to raise support and share your heart for the mission. To help you get started, we’ve created a folder full of practical fundraising resources, templates, and tips just for you.

👉 Click here to access the Fundraising Resources Folder. 

Remember, you’re not just raising money — you’re raising awareness, building a team of prayer partners, and stepping out in faith. You’ve got this!

How do I get to the airport?
  • You will need to get yourself to and from the airport in the United States. Hands 4Life will take care of all in-country transportation once you land.

What Do I Need to Know for the Customs Forms?

When flying into Lagos (LOS), you will receive immigration entry documents and customs declaration forms during your flight. These must be completed in blue or black ink before landing. Be prepared to provide the following information:

  • Lodging Address – This will be emailed to you 30 days prior to travel.

  • Reason for Travel – Tourism

  • Items Declared – If you are carrying any large donations or valuable electronics, you may need to declare them.

Traveling as a Minor (Under 18)?

If you are under 18 and traveling without both parents, you must carry a notarized letter from each parent granting permission to leave the country. If traveling with only one parent, you must have a notarized letter from the absent parent permitting travel to Nigeria.

The letter should include:
-Child’s full legal name (as it appears on passport) and date of birth
–Both parents’ legal names and formal signatures
–Legal name of team leader or responsible adult
–Legal name of temporary guardian (if different from team leader)
–Specific travel dates for Nigeria, including flight number, arrival & departure times
–Destination country: Nigeria
-Purpose of travel: Tourism

Failure to present this document may result in denied boarding or entry refusal upon arrival in Nigeria. Ensure all documents are prepared and notarized well in advance of your departure.

How Can I Prepare to Serve?

Flexibility is key—but we know that’s easier said than done. The best way to stay adaptable is to come prepared with simple ways to connect. Bringing a few small, interactive items can help build relationships quickly. Consider packing:

  • Jump ropes

  • Nail polish

  • Beach balls

  • Sports balls

  • Frisbees

  • Bubbles

  • Crayons and coloring books

  • Climate / Packing list:

How much clothing should I bring?
Since you’ll be traveling to a warm climate, we recommend packing extra clothing, as you may need to change multiple times a day. Here’s a general guideline:

  • 1-2 church outfits

  • 3-4 sets of work clothes

  • 6-8 sets of casual clothes

What should I leave at home?
To maintain a respectful and appropriate environment, please avoid bringing:

  • Tight, clingy, or see-through clothing

  • Low-cut tops

  • Bikinis

  • Short shorts

Essentials You Might Forget
Don’t forget these must-have items for comfort and convenience:

  • Hat or baseball cap

  • Socks and undergarments

  • Lightweight sleepwear

  • Sunglasses

  • Good bug spray

  • Sunscreen

  • Bible and Journal

  • Universal travel adaptor
  • Malaria Medication 

What is the return policy if I decide to go on the Nigeria mission trip and then cancel?

If Hands 4Life cancels a trip for any reason, participants will be notified. Individuals will have the option to transfer their balance to a future Hands 4Life mission trip within the next 12 months. They can also hold the original trip’s price for the following year should the same trip occur but at an increased price. Or participants can choose to be fully refunded. 

If a participant or group cancels their trip 60 days or less before departure, all collected funds will be used for the mission, as, by that point, those funds will have been allocated toward trip expenses. Most trips canceled more than 60 days before departure can receive a full refund minus the $150 deposit and possibly the flight. However, this is subject to Hands 4Life’s discretion based on the specifics of the trip.

If an individual or group cancels their trip, the $150 deposit may be used for another trip in the same calendar year only. After the calendar year has ended, a new application fee will be required.

Can I bring donations for the ministry?
Absolutely! Donated items are a tremendous blessing to our ministry partners. To receive a list of suggested donations, please email morgan@h4lworld.org.

Important Guidelines:

  • Please do not hand out donations directly. Instead, give them to our missionaries or ministry partners, who will entrust the donations to local church leaders and community members for distribution. This approach ensures that support is given through trusted relationships, preventing dependence on visiting teams and keeping the focus on God’s provision.

  • We currently do not have a cost-effective way to ship donations internationally. If you’d like to bring items, they must be packed in a suitcase and transported at your own expense.

How much money should I bring? Can I use my credit card? Do I need cash, and should I exchange it?

American credit cards are accepted at most locations in Owerri. However, we strongly recommend exchanging your U.S. dollars for Nigerian Naira (NGN) before leaving the United States, as currency exchange options may be limited upon arrival.

Most of your expenses are covered in the trip cost, but you may want to bring extra money for:

  • Souvenirs

  • Additional meals or snacks at airports and hotels

  • Optional fun-day activities

We suggest bringing $100–$200 for personal expenses.

Credit Card Use & Tipping
While credit cards are accepted in many places, some may charge high international transaction fees. Please check with your bank before traveling.

Additionally, we recommend each participant bring $20 to contribute towards a group tip for hotel staff, translators, and local support teams. This is optional but greatly appreciated. All contributions will be collected and distributed by our team at the end of the trip.

Here’s a checklist to help you keep track of what needs to be done before your trip. 

Mission Trip Checklist

  • In Nigeria it is considered disrespectful to look seniors in the eye. 
  • When greeting an elder, it’s respectful to slightly bow or lower your head.
  • Elders and authority figures should always be greeted first as a sign of respect.
  • Nigerians are incredibly hospitable—if offered food or a drink, it is polite to accept, even if only in a small amount.
  • Be mindful of how you portray locals and mission work on social media—focus on dignity and empowerment rather than poverty or need.

What safety measures has Hands 4Life implemented?

Hands 4Life is committed to providing an educational, engaging, and, most importantly, safe experience for all volunteers. To ensure this, we have implemented several safety measures:

Site Verification and Local Partnerships

  • To ensure the safety of our missionaries, Hands 4Life will provide professional armed security personnel to accompany them at all times throughout the trip.
  • Hands 4Life’s  international director conducts a scouting trip to any new location before sending a team.

  • We partner with trusted in-country residents who are familiar with local communities and knowledgeable about any safety concerns.

  • Our Nigerian residents provide cultural context and guidance to help team members engage effectively with those we are serving.

  • Distribution sites are carefully vetted for safety, and in-country partners conduct site visits whenever possible.

Team Knowledge and Information

  • Each team member receives a contact information document that includes addresses, phone numbers, and emergency contacts such as the nearest U.S. embassy and travel insurance details.

  • We conduct three team meetings before each trip to discuss details, including safety measures and other relevant concerns.

  • Our team leaders are available for one-on-one discussions if team members have additional questions outside of meetings.

STEP Registration

  • All team members are registered with the State Department through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) https://step.state.gov/, which provides:

    • Safety updates from the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria.

    • Assistance in case of natural disasters, civil unrest, or family emergencies.

    • A way for family and friends to contact team members in an emergency.

Travel Insurance

  • Hands 4Life provides trip insurance for all volunteers and staff, including:

    • Emergency accident and sickness medical expense coverage.

    • Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of mortal remains.

Accommodation and Food Safety

  • We research and select accommodations in safe locations that prioritize security and cleanliness.

  • Whenever possible, we choose lodging with in-house dining for food safety.

  • Our in-country partners ensure all restaurants and food provided are safe to minimize foodborne illnesses.

Hands 4Life Training

  • Hands 4Life has a team of experienced and well-trained leaders present on every trip to guide and support participants.

What is the purpose of the Hands 4Life Nigeria mission trip?

The mission trip’s purpose is to serve orphaned children and vulnerable seniors in Nigeria by providing resources, care, and hope. Volunteers will engage in community outreach, assist with essential services, and share love and encouragement with those in need.

Do I need previous mission trip experience to participate?

No prior mission trip experience is required. However, participants should be prepared for physically demanding work and cultural immersion. If you’re unable to join the trip, we encourage donations to support our work.

What is the deadline to apply for the Nigeria mission trip?

The application deadline is typically 90 days before the trip start date. However, early applications are recommended, as spots fill quickly. Exceptions may be made as the trip date approaches, but you must contact our team to check availability.

Which denominations does Hands 4Life partner with?

Hands 4Life partners with all Christian-affiliated denominations.

What is included in the cost for this mission trip to Nigeria?

The trip cost covers in-country transportation, meals, accommodations, exit taxes, trip insurance, necessary supplies, and excursions. Airfare is not included and must be booked separately. Additional expenses may include souvenirs, checked baggage fees, and visa costs. All payments are made directly to Hands 4Life.

Can non-U.S. citizens travel on this Nigeria mission trip?

Yes! If you live outside the USA, you can still join the trip. However, you must handle all visa requirements and airfare arrangements after completing the Hands 4Life application process.

Why do you run a background check?

Our top priority is the safety of our volunteers and the communities we serve. To maintain a secure environment, all mission trip participants undergo a background check before approval.

Will there be cell service and internet access during the trip?

Cell service and internet access may be limited in some areas. While lodging facilities often provide internet, we cannot guarantee connectivity throughout the trip. If needed, we recommend purchasing an international travel plan. However, we encourage participants to unplug and fully engage in the local experience.

What if I have food allergies?

While we do our best to accommodate dietary needs, we cannot guarantee that all allergies will be avoided. If you have severe food sensitivities, consult your doctor to prepare for the trip.