Organization: PATH
Job Requisition ID: JR2526
Location: Kebbi, Nigeria
Employment Type: Full-time
Application Closing Date: 20th May, 2026
POSITION OVERVIEW
PATH is seeking a technically proficient State Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Officer for the PMI REACH Malaria Project in Kebbi. Reporting to the State Coordinator with technical oversight from the MEL Manager, you will lead the implementation of surveillance, monitoring, and evaluation (SME) strategies. This role goes beyond data collection; you will triangulate HMIS and LMIS data to drive strategic policy discussions, influence Health Systems Strengthening (HSS), and mainstream malaria budgets into state government planning.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Technical Leadership in SME & HSS
- Strategic Planning: Develop and implement the state M&E/HSS plan in alignment with PMI REACH Malaria goals and Department of State indicators.
- Systems Integration: Establish seamless information flow from service delivery points to the DHIS2 central database.
- AOP Support: Provide analyzed data to inform the Malaria Annual Operation Plan (AOP) and monitor budget performance.
2. Capacity Building & Data Use
- Empowerment: Build the capacity of SMEP and LGA focal persons in evidence-based decision-making regarding HRH (Human Resources for Health) and health financing.
- Training: Work with state partners to train health workers on HMIS reporting forms, registers, and data quality standards.
3. Data Quality & Analytics
- DQA: Lead data quality audits (DQA) and participate in state/LGA data quality review meetings.
- Strategic Analytics: Use HRH analytics and malaria program data to monitor performance toward elimination goals and inform state health insurance schemes.
CANDIDATE SPECIFICATIONS
Education & Experience
- Standard Track: First degree in any field with 5+ years of progressive experience in M&E of health programs.
- Advanced Track: Postgraduate degree in Social Sciences, Statistics, or Epidemiology with 3+ years of field experience.
- Domain Expertise: A minimum of 3 years specifically working in malaria programs in Nigeria is mandatory.
- Project Context: Familiarity with Department of State or donor reporting systems (PMI/USAID) is highly desirable.
Required Skills
- Technical: Mastery of DHIS2 and MOH health information systems.
- Analysis: Exceptional skills in data triangulation (HMIS + LMIS), presentation, and technical reporting.
- Leadership: Strong facilitation, organizational, and team-building skills within a multi-cultural context.
- Communication: Professional proficiency in English (oral and written).
METHOD OF APPLICATION
Interested and qualified candidates should apply through the PATH global careers portal.
PATH is an equal opportunity employer. Every qualified applicant will be considered for employment.
Success Blueprint: State MEL Officer (Kebbi)
The State MEL Officer for REACH Malaria is not a traditional “data entry” role. PATH is looking for a data-driven advocate who can use statistics to influence the Kebbi State Ministry of Health and SPHCDA.
1. The “HSS” Angle (Health Systems Strengthening)
The job description explicitly mentions using data to influence HRH (Human Resources for Health) and Health Financing.
- The Strategy: In your application, don’t just talk about “reporting.” Highlight your experience in using data to advocate for budget changes or staff redeployment.
- Pro-Tip: If you have worked with a State Health Insurance Scheme or supported the “Mainstreaming” of malaria budgets into a state budget, make this a central part of your “Major Duties.”
2. Triangulation of Data (HMIS + LMIS)
REACH Malaria requires the triangulation of health facility data (HMIS) with logistics/commodity data (LMIS).
- The Task: You must ensure that where there are malaria cases, there are also drugs/commodities.
- Action: Mention your proficiency in comparing National Health Management Information System (NHMIS) data with mSupply or NHLMIS data. Showing you understand the supply chain side of malaria is a major advantage.
3. DHIS2 Mastery
Knowledge of the MOH health information system and DHIS2 is a non-negotiable requirement.
- Technical Proof: Describe your experience in data entry, validation rules, and dashboard creation within DHIS2. Mention your role in previous Data Quality Audits (DQA) and how you resolved discrepancies at the facility level.
4. Knowledge of the “AOP” Cycle
The role supports the Malaria Annual Operation Plan (AOP).
- The Context: State planning and budgeting cycles are complex.
- Success Factor: Show that you understand the timeline of the AOP process in Nigeria. Mention how you have used evidence to influence mTWG (Malaria Technical Working Group) decisions in the past.
5. Soft Skills for Kebbi Context
Working in Kebbi requires excellent multi-cultural and interpersonal skills.
- Culture Fit: Highlight your “Strong Work Ethic” and “Credibility.” Mention your ability to facilitate meetings with diverse stakeholders, from LGA focal persons to State Directors.
6. Final Application Checklist
- [ ] Experience Check: Do you have the mandatory 3 years of malaria-specific experience?
- [ ] Technical Keywords: Include “DHIS2,” “HSS,” “AOP,” “HRH Analytics,” and “Data Triangulation.”
- [ ] Postgraduate Benefit: If you have an MPH or an MSc in Epidemiology, ensure it is the first thing the recruiter sees.
- [ ] NGO Context: Explicitly mention any previous experience with international NGOs (PATH, Management Sciences for Health, Malaria Consortium, etc.).
You are the link between data and malaria elimination in Kebbi. Apply with strategic vision.