Organization: Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) – WaCA
Location: Abuja (FCT), Nigeria
Salary Scale: Level 3
Application Deadline: 23rd April, 2026
JOB SUMMARY
To provide safe, smooth, and efficient transportation for authorized goods and passengers while maintaining the vehicle’s technical and safety conditions in strict adherence to MSF security rules and Nigerian traffic laws.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Vehicle Maintenance: Daily checks (tires, oil, brakes, fuel) and weekly logbook inspections; ensuring the vehicle is clean and “mission-ready.”
- Cargo & Passengers: Safe loading/unloading, document verification, and ensuring all goods have necessary transit papers.
- Communication: Expert use of HF/VHF radios, mastery of radio alphabets, codes, and call signs for tracking and security.
- Compliance: Ensuring valid vehicle papers and driving licenses are always present; following handover procedures.
- Security: Reporting all incidents immediately to the Line Manager.
REQUIREMENTS
- Education: Valid driving license PLUS technical certification in automotive mechanics (or proven mechanical experience).
- Experience: Minimum 2 years of professional driving. NGO/MSF experience is highly desirable.
- Digital Skills: Basic proficiency in Word and Excel (used for logbooks and reports).
- Languages: Fluency in English; knowledge of local languages (Hausa/Gwandara/etc.) is an asset.
- Qualities: Teamwork, stress management, and commitment to humanitarian principles.
Strategy Guide: Winning the MSF Driver Role
1. The “Secret” Requirements
Unlike standard driving jobs, MSF looks for these three specific things:
- The Mechanic Edge: They explicitly ask for “automotive mechanics” knowledge. In your CV, don’t just say you drive; mention that you can “diagnose engine faults” or “perform minor roadside repairs.”
- Radio Mastery: Mention your familiarity with NATO Phonetic Alphabets (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie…) and using VHF/HF radios. In humanitarian work, this is a life-saving skill.
- Computer Literacy: The advert specifically requires Excel. This is likely for digital logbooks and fuel tracking. Ensure your CV mentions you can “input data into spreadsheets.”
2. Abuja Specifics
- Gwarinpa Knowledge: Since the office is in Gwarinpa, highlight your familiarity with Abuja’s routes, bypasses, and traffic patterns to ensure “efficient service.”
- Security Awareness: Abuja can have security checkpoints. Mention your experience in “calmly navigating checkpoints” and “adhering to curfew or transit rules.”
3. The 2-Step Application Process (CRITICAL)
If you skip one step, you will likely be disqualified:
- Step 1 (Email or Physical): Send your CV, License, and Cover Letter.
- Subject Line: Driver – Abuja
- Address: Plot 722A k-close, Gwarinpa (if submitting by hand).
- Step 2 (Online): You MUST also click the “Apply Online” link provided in the original advert to enter their database.
4. Interview Tips for Drivers
- Pre-trip Inspection: Be ready to demonstrate a daily vehicle check (oil, tires, water) if asked.
- Scenario Questions: “A passenger asks you to take a route you know is unsafe. What do you do?” * Correct Answer: “Politely refuse, cite MSF security protocols, and immediately contact the base/Line Manager via radio for instructions.”
[Your Full Name]
Abuja, Nigeria | [Phone Number] | [Email Address]
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Professional Driver and Mechanic with [Number] years of experience. Expert in fleet maintenance, long-distance driving, and NGO security protocols. Proven track record of maintaining zero-incident safety records and 100% vehicle uptime through proactive mechanical servicing.
CORE SKILLS
- Driving: Defensive driving, 4×4 off-road experience, Abuja route mastery.
- Technical: Automotive mechanics (Diesel/Petrol engines), tire maintenance, basic electricals.
- Communication: VHF/HF Radio operation, Phonetic Alphabets, Incident Reporting.
- Software: Basic MS Excel (Logbooks), MS Word (Reporting).
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Professional Driver/Mechanic | [Current/Last Company/NGO]
[Dates]
- Provided safe transport for staff and high-value cargo across FCT and neighboring states.
- Performed daily and weekly technical checks, reducing vehicle breakdown rates by [X]%.
- Maintained accurate digital and physical logbooks, tracking fuel consumption via Excel.
- Managed vehicle handovers and ensured all transit documentation was compliant with local laws.
Company Driver | [Previous Company]
[Dates]
- Navigated complex urban routes in Abuja ensuring punctual delivery of goods.
- Conducted minor mechanical repairs and routine servicing (oil changes, brake pad replacements).
EDUCATION & LICENSING
- Valid Class [X] Nigerian Driving License
- Technical Trade Test / Certificate in Automotive Mechanics | [Institution]
- Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSCE)
REFEREES
Available upon request
To: The Recruitment Manager
MSF WaCA, Abuja.
RE: APPLICATION FOR DRIVER – ABUJA
Dear Sir/Ma,
I am writing to express my interest in the Driver position at MSF WaCA, as advertised. With a valid driving license, over [Number] years of professional experience, and a strong background in automotive mechanics, I am confident in my ability to provide the “safe, smooth, and efficient service” that MSF requires.
In my previous roles, I have learned that being an MSF driver is about more than just steering a vehicle; it is about security, maintenance, and communication. I am highly disciplined in performing daily technical checks—from tires to radio equipment—to ensure the vehicle is always ready for a mission. My mechanical background allows me to identify and fix minor faults before they become expensive repairs or security risks.
I am also proficient in using MS Excel for maintaining digital logbooks and am fully comfortable using VHF/HF radios and phonetic alphabets to maintain constant contact with the base. Having driven extensively in Abuja and surrounding areas, I have a deep understanding of local traffic rules and safety conditions.
I am a team player who remains calm under stress, and I am fully committed to the humanitarian principles of MSF. I look forward to the possibility of joining your team and supporting your operations in Abuja.
Please find attached my CV, valid driver’s license, and technical qualifications.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Phone Number]