Program Officer at The United States Institute of Peace (USIP)-Nigeria

The United States Institute of Peace (USIP) is a distinguished federal institution dedicated to promoting global conflict prevention and resolution. Our mission encompasses educating individuals on the principles of diplomacy, mediation, and other effective approaches to foster peace worldwide. With a steadfast commitment to scholarly research, comprehensive analysis, and rigorous training, we actively strive to cultivate a harmonious and conflict-free future…

Position Overview

The Project Officer will be a part of a team working on the Conflict Mitigation and Community Policing (CM/CP) project for USIP in three Middle Belt states in Nigeria (Plateau, Benue, and Niger). The project’s objective is to enhance intercommunal violence response capabilities of the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in order to increase security in the Middle Belt.

The project officer will take on operational, administrative, financial, and technical responsibilities to lead the implementation of the state’s program. He/She/They will be in charge of overseeing all technical trainings, ensuring the synthesis of technical methods throughout the implementation domains, and transforming program learning into concrete modifications to intervention techniques. The PO will answer to the Lagos-based Nigeria Program Officer. They will collaborate closely with the project team in Washington, DC, and the program officer in Nigeria. Working closely with the Nigeria Police Force and the National Security and Civil Defense Corps will also be a requirement of the job.

Responsibilities

Assist in the preparation of the work plan, the analysis of stakeholders and conflicts, trainings, the choice and management of partnerships, and the overall sector strategy for the CM/CP project.
Support the implementation of monitoring and evaluation, which aims to record and use data for program learning and improvement with an emphasis on lessons learned over the course of the program.
Assist in the administration and implementation of the CM/CP initiatives in accordance with the project’s logical framework and impact goal.
Assure that CM/CP operations are carried out in accordance with the project log frame and budget by providing sector oversight and direction.
Recognize and promote opportunities for innovative action, and foster an atmosphere that values different points of view.
Responsible for working with Partners and other stakeholders to ensure implementation of the CM/CP in the relevant State.
Assuring the quality and integrity of project implementation by partners through regular communication and site visits, including adherence to project principles and work plans, best practices in the relevant professional fields, and applicable policies, regulations, and laws, including those of USIP.
Build relationships and improve coordination amongst relevant stakeholders, particularly NPF, NSCDC, and pertinent government ministries, agencies, and departments, when necessary, under the direction of the Nigeria Program Officer.
Integrate community approaches, conflict, and gender sensitivity into CM/CP capacity building activities as appropriate.
Provide technical and sector inputs to//during planning, organizing and coordination of project monitoring processes, assessments, surveys, research and evaluations.
In collaboration with partners, contribute to the development and standardization of best practices.

Additional Duties

Maintain a culture of excellence and respect for one another at work.
Through routine performance reviews, encourage accountability, define expectations, and give helpful feedback.
Provide other team members with information, tools and other resources to improve performance and reach objectives
Ensure compliance with USIP’s financial regulations as related to the project implementation.
Review partners contract / activity budget for technical efficacy
Identify, build, and manage collaborative partnerships with partners, law enforcement, MDAs and other stakeholders.
Communicate effectively to ensure project implementation targets and technical quality standards are met.
Participate in coordination meetings and other relevant meetings as delegated
Ensure compliance with security procedures and policies as determined by USIP’s Overseas Safety and Security department.

Qualification

Minimum BA/Sc. in relevant field (international relations, conflict resolution, human rights or development) or other similar field. A master’s degree would be an asset.
Minimum of 4 years working experience in a similar context and specifically with law enforcement agencies in Nigeria.
Strong Community policing and conflict management skills, with good understanding of relevant institutional culture in particular NPF, NSCDC and community governance structures.
Experience working in the selected state.
Demonstrated attention to detail, ability to follow procedures, meet deadlines and work independently and cooperatively with team members.

Additional Requirements

Excellent writing, editing and analytical skills.
Ability to work independently in a fast-paced and often demanding environment
Experience working with an NGO (local or international) or research institution
Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to develop good relationships with a wide range of actors required.
Good organizational skills, ability to make recommendations for improvement and contribute to overall program strategy.
Perfect knowledge of English. Knowledge of Hausa is advantageous
Willingness to travel throughout the different project areas.
Experience in conducting trainings and workshops is a must.
Experience with monitoring and evaluation is an advantage.

Additional information

All positions with USIP, including contract and employee, are subject to the successful conclusion of a suitable background check. Compensation is in line with experience and qualifications. Email [email protected] with any inquiries you may have regarding this position. Resumes and attachments shouldn’t be sent to this email address. The only applicants who will be contacted are those who are chosen for further discussions..

Method of Application

If you are interested and meet the qualifications, please submit a comprehensive application package, including the following:

Fill out the employment application with your full name, hiring dates, and preferred compensation.
Provide a cover letter.
Include your resume.

To access the application form, click on “APPLICATION“.