UNICEF is a global leader in advocating for the rights of children, dedicated to helping meet their basic needs and expanding their opportunities to reach their full potential. In Nigeria, UNICEF plays a pivotal role in contributing to the Millennium Development Goals, working tirelessly to protect children's rights and foster their development.
UNICEF's Nigeria Country Programme is a comprehensive initiative designed to accelerate the realization of the rights of all children and women. It aims to reduce infant, child, and maternal mortality, expand access to quality basic education, and strengthen robust social and child protection systems. Adopting a rights-based and gender-sensitive approach, the programme acts as a vital catalyst, supporting federal, state, and local governments in identifying and addressing key bottlenecks that hinder the realization of rights for disadvantaged children. This is achieved through equity-focused, inclusive advocacy, planning, action, and monitoring at all levels, alongside a strong commitment to supporting adolescent development.
Purpose of This Vital Assignment
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced International Consultant for Child Protection Reintegration & CP Transition to join our team. The primary purpose of this consultancy is to bolster the transition towards government-led Child Protection Area of Responsibility (CP AoR) coordination. This involves strengthening the capacity of the Ministry of Social Welfare to effectively lead coordination mechanisms and technical working groups.
Furthermore, this role will be instrumental in supporting the prevention of child recruitment and use by armed groups, addressing other grave violations against children and women. The consultant will provide critical technical leadership in facilitating the social and economic reintegration of children and women exiting armed groups and contribute significantly to peacebuilding efforts in north-east Nigeria.
This assignment will be guided by the Core Commitments for Children in Humanitarian Action (CCCs), ensuring that all reintegration programming is timely, equitable, and centred on the best interests of the child. A key focus will be on strengthening national systems to sustainably deliver protection services beyond the immediate humanitarian response. Particular emphasis will be placed on ensuring that reintegration approaches are survivor-centred, gender-responsive, and inclusive, addressing the differentiated needs of girls, boys, and children with disabilities, and reinforcing community-based protection mechanisms as a foundation for long-term reintegration outcomes.
Who We Are Looking For: Requirements
We are searching for a highly qualified professional with a deep commitment to child protection and humanitarian action.
Education:
- MA in Child Protection, Social Work, International Development, Human Rights, or a related field.
Work Experience:
- Minimum of 7–10 years of relevant professional experience in child protection programming and coordination, with demonstrated experience in the reintegration of children affected by armed conflict (CAAC).
- Proven experience in coordination and/or support to inter-agency mechanisms (e.g., CP AoR, technical working groups), with a strong understanding of government-led coordination processes.
- Demonstrated experience in capacity strengthening of government systems, including training, mentoring, and institutional support.
- Strong experience in conducting assessments, gap analyses, and desk reviews, with the ability to produce high-quality analytical reports and actionable recommendations.
- Proven ability to work in complex humanitarian settings, with strong stakeholder engagement and facilitation skills.
Language Requirements:
- Excellent drafting and communication skills in English are essential.
Knowledge/Expertise/Skills:
- Excellent understanding of child protection in emergencies (CPiE) and relevant frameworks, including reintegration, alternative care, and community-based approaches.
- Familiarity with the Core Commitments for Children in Humanitarian Action (CCCs), the Child Protection Minimum Standards, and survivor-centred, gender-responsive, and inclusive approaches.
- Strong stakeholder engagement, facilitation, and coordination skills, including the ability to support government-led coordination mechanisms.
Desirables:
- Prior working experience in the Nigeria context is a significant asset.
- Prior experience with UNICEF and/or the UN system is an asset.
Method of Application
Interested and qualified? Go to UNICEF on jobs.unicef.org to apply