Lead Consultant – National Border Management Strategy at International Organization for Migration (IOM)

Abuja

In an increasingly interconnected world, the way a nation manages its borders defines its capacity to protect human rights while fostering economic integration. This consultancy is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s commitment to safe and orderly migration, directly influencing how the state balances security with the free movement of persons across West Africa. By refining this strategic framework, you will be architecting a safer, more resilient migration landscape that aligns national priorities with global standards for the benefit of millions.

Job Summary

The Lead Consultant will spearhead the comprehensive revision of the Nigeria National Border Management Strategy (NBMS) and the subsequent creation of its multi-year Action Plan. The primary objective is to modernize Nigeria’s border governance to reflect current migration trends, technological shifts, and international protocols. You will serve as the technical lead, ensuring that the new strategy is data-driven, institutionally owned, and fully harmonized with the ECOWAS Protocol and the Global Compact for Migration.

Key Responsibilities

  • Strategic Evaluation: Conduct an exhaustive review of the 2019–2023 NBMS to identify systemic successes, persistent bottlenecks, and critical lessons learned.
  • Policy Alignment: Ensure the updated strategy is seamlessly integrated with the National Migration Policy and regional frameworks like the ECOWAS free movement protocols.
  • Evidence-Based Assessment: Perform a deep-dive gap analysis of current operational capacities, technical infrastructures, and data-sharing mechanisms across all relevant agencies.
  • Stakeholder Orchestration: Design and lead high-level consultative workshops involving the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), security forces, border communities, and international development partners.
  • Security & Tech Integration: Analyze emerging cross-border threats—including AI, biometrics, and digital surveillance—to recommend advanced technological adoptions for border efficiency.
  • Action Plan Development: Construct a granular implementation roadmap that assigns clear institutional roles, budget considerations, and a robust Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) framework.
  • Government Validation: Facilitate the formal endorsement process with the Government of Nigeria to ensure long-term sustainability and policy coherence.

Essential Qualifications & Skills

  • Advanced Academic Background: A Master’s degree in Migration Studies, International Relations, Law, or Public Administration.
  • Proven Track Record: At least 15 years of progressive experience in border governance (or 20 years with a Bachelor’s degree).
  • Technical Expertise: Deep knowledge of migration data collection, regional integration efforts, and integrated border management (IBM) principles.
  • Consulting Prowess: Demonstrated ability to draft high-level strategic documents and facilitate complex multi-stakeholder working groups.
  • Cultural & Gender Intelligence: Exceptional intercultural communication skills and a proven ability to mainstream gender-sensitive perspectives into policy.
  • Linguistic Mastery: Full professional proficiency in written and spoken English.

Why This Consultancy Matters

Borders are not just lines on a map; they are dynamic zones where security meets humanity. As the consultant, you are providing the intellectual and practical blueprint for how Nigeria interacts with the world. Your work will directly reduce migration risks, combat transnational crime, and facilitate the legal movement of laborers and families, making you a key contributor to regional stability and development.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Engagement Type: Specialized Consultancy (Hybrid).
  • Duration: Up to 11 months (Initial contract of 90 working days).
  • Remuneration: IOM offers competitive consultancy rates based on the UN UG-grade scale and the candidate’s depth of experience.
  • Impact: The opportunity to influence national policy at the highest levels of government within a prestigious UN-related organization.

About the Organization

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) serves as the leading United Nations agency dedicated to the principle that humane and orderly migration benefits both migrants and society. We work across the globe to support governments in meeting the operational challenges of migration while advancing the welfare of those on the move. Our mission in Nigeria is focused on building sustainable migration governance through partnership, innovation, and respect for human dignity. By joining our team, you contribute to a global legacy of promoting safe migration for all.

Application Information

  • Job Identification: 17938
  • Location: Abuja, Nigeria (with hybrid/remote flexibility)
  • Closing Date: December 31, 2025; 01:00 AM
  • How to Apply: Applications must be submitted through the official IOM career portal.

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Tips for Applicants

  1. Emphasize Regional Knowledge: Given the focus on ECOWAS protocols, specifically highlight any previous work involving West African migration frameworks.
  2. Focus on Data: IOM values data-driven strategies. Clearly illustrate your experience in using migration statistics or digital tools to inform policy.
  3. Be Concise in Strategy: When submitting your portfolio or CV, prioritize examples where you successfully took a high-level strategy from the “drafting” phase to “government endorsement.”
  4. Soft Skills Matter: Since this role requires facilitating workshops with security forces and local communities, highlight your ability to manage diverse (and sometimes conflicting) stakeholder interests.