Job Identification: 19904
Organization: International Organization for Migration (IOM)
Location: Abuja, Nigeria
Grade: P-5
Contract Type: Fixed-term (1 Year with possibility of extension)
Application Deadline: 22nd April, 2026, at 22:59 (Geneva Time)
ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXT & SCOPE
IOM Nigeria is one of the organization’s most complex and dynamic missions, operating at the forefront of migration management, emergency response, and post-crisis stabilization. Under the direct supervision of the Chief of Mission (CoM) and in close coordination with Headquarters, the Deputy Chief of Mission (DCoM) serves as a vital strategic pillar, ensuring total coherence between the Country Office’s programming and its support services.
The DCoM is responsible for driving the effectiveness and efficiency of IOM’s operational portfolio in Nigeria, aligning mission activities with the Regional Strategy, the Global Compact for Migration (GCM), and the 2030 Agenda, while fostering high-level partnerships with national authorities and the international diplomatic corps.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Strategic Leadership & Mission Deputation
- Formally deputize for the Chief of Mission (CoM), exercising full mission, staff, and financial management responsibilities.
- Lead the formulation of Country Strategies and policies across IOM’s operational portfolio to address emerging migration needs.
- Chair the Senior Management Team (SMT) and provide high-level advice to improve the overall performance of the Country Office.
2. Operational Oversight & The Nexus Approach
- Oversee field operations to ensure the effective implementation of the Humanitarian-Development-Peace Nexus.
- Ensure that all project delivery is timely, results-oriented, and measurable, avoiding disruptions through sound leadership and monitoring.
- Foster inter-unit collaboration among Heads of Sub-Offices and Units to maximize programmatic efficacy.
3. Risk Management, Compliance & Accountability
- Strengthen internal controls and ensure strict compliance with IOM and donor regulations/contractual obligations.
- Drive efficiency in Risk Management functions, providing documented risk information to safeguard mission resources.
4. External Relations & Inter-Agency Coordination
- Represent IOM with national authorities, the diplomatic corps, and UNCT inter-agency mechanisms.
- Lead donor relations and fundraising activities, monitoring program funding priorities across the migration spectrum.
- Coordinate IOM’s engagement with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) and the UN Network on Migration.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
- Education: * Master’s Degree in Political/Social Sciences, Law, International Relations, or Business Administration with 10 years of relevant professional experience; OR
- Bachelor’s Degree in the same fields with 12 years of relevant experience.
- Experience: * Proven track record in strategic engagement and inter-agency coordination within UN structures.
- Extensive experience in managing large-scale programs across emergency, stabilization, and development areas.
- Previous experience as a Head of Office, Chief of Mission, or Senior Program Manager in an international context.
- Significant experience in external relations and liaison with high-level governmental and diplomatic authorities.
- Work experience in the Region is highly desirable.
- Languages: Fluency in English (oral and written) is required. Working knowledge of French or local languages is an advantage.
COMPETENCIES
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to realize organizational goals and communicate a clear strategic direction.
- Leadership: Leads by example, empowers others, and realizes professional potential within teams.
- Accountability: Takes ownership of mission priorities and assumes responsibility for delegated work.
METHOD OF APPLICATION
Qualified international professionals are invited to apply via the IOM online recruitment system:
IMPORTANT NOTES
- Mobility: Internationally recruited professional staff are required to be mobile and may be reassigned.
- Zero Tolerance: IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and discrimination.
- Medical Fit: Appointment is subject to medical certification, security clearances, and residency/visa requirements.
- Recruitment Integrity: IOM does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
Driving migration solutions through strategic leadership and operational excellence in Nigeria.