Purpose of the assignment:
  • The purpose of this consultancy is to support the transition towards government-led Child Protection Area of Responsibility coordination by strengthening the capacity of the Ministry of Social Welfare to lead coordination mechanisms and technical working groups; and to support the prevention of child recruitment and use by armed groups, including other grave violations against children and women, and to provide technical leadership in facilitating the social and economic reintegration of children and women exiting armed groups and peacebuilding efforts in north-east Nigeria.
  • The assignment will be guided by the Core Commitments for Children in Humanitarian Action (CCCs), ensuring that reintegration programming is timely, equitable and centred on the best interests of the child, while strengthening national systems to sustainably deliver protection services beyond the 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.
Qualifications / Specialized Knowledge / Experience/ Competencies (Core/technical/functional) / Language Skills Required For The Assignment
Education:
MA Child Protection, Social Work, International Development, Human Rights, or a related field
Work Experience:
• Minimum 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.
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 an asset.
• Prior experience with UNICEF and/or the UN system is an asset.