Application Deadline
September 24, 2026
Nutrition International is seeking an experienced Senior Program Officer – Child Survival to support the implementation and expansion of child survival and vitamin A supplementation programmes in Katsina and Jigawa States, Nigeria. The position is a full-time, on-site contract for two years, with potential for renewal, and is open exclusively to Nigerian nationals. The application deadline is 4 September 2026, although applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Highly qualified candidates from Northwestern Nigeria are particularly encouraged to apply. About Nutrition International Founded in 1992, Nutrition International is a global organisation focused on delivering proven, cost-effective nutrition interventions to populations most in need. The organisation works with governments, donors and implementing partners across more than 60 countries, primarily in Africa and Asia. Its work focuses on reducing malnutrition and improving health outcomes through evidence-based interventions, nutrition research, policy support and stronger health systems. In Nigeria, Nutrition International works closely with government partners to improve access to high-impact interventions benefiting mothers and children. About the Position The Senior Program Officer will provide technical and operational leadership for vitamin A supplementation (VAS) activities in Katsina and Jigawa. The programme forms part of the twice-yearly Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Weeks (MNCHW), which aim to increase access to essential health services for women and children. The successful candidate will help ensure that VAS activities are effectively planned, implemented, monitored and sustained. The position will strengthen state- and Local Government Area (LGA)-level service delivery while supporting community uptake of essential child survival interventions. Key Responsibilities The Senior Program Officer will contribute to programme development by maintaining updated analyses of VAS programming and identifying implementation gaps and bottlenecks. The role will involve developing projects with government and other stakeholders, preparing budgets, monitoring financial commitments and identifying opportunities to expand Nutrition International’s child survival engagement. For programme implementation, the officer will coordinate VAS activities across Katsina and Jigawa and manage a team of LGA-level coordinators. Responsibilities will include developing workplans, conducting regular performance reviews, providing technical guidance, troubleshooting implementation challenges and recommending corrective actions. The officer will also coordinate with government and community stakeholders to promote cost-effective use of programme resources. Regular field visits, online monitoring, project tracking and reporting will be required to ensure activities remain aligned with agreed objectives and deliver results. Research, Evaluation and Knowledge Sharing The position will support research and evaluation activities related to child survival programming. This will include working with researchers and external evaluators, facilitating government approvals and stakeholder engagement, and helping disseminate findings. The Senior Program Officer will also contribute to policy briefs, case studies, blogs, summary documents and other knowledge products. Participation in national and sub-national forums will provide opportunities to share lessons and strengthen collaboration across the child survival sector. Stakeholder Engagement and Supervision Strong external relationships will be central to the role. The officer will work with Ministries of Health, government agencies, UN organisations, NGOs and other partners at national and state levels. The position will supervise more than 20 LGA Coordinators, as well as two State Coordinators covering Katsina and Jigawa. Effective leadership, team motivation, performance management and cross-functional collaboration will therefore be essential. Education and Experience Applicants must hold a master’s degree or postgraduate-level qualification from a recognised university in nutrition, public health with a nutrition focus, or another relevant discipline supported by significant professional experience. Training in epidemiology, data analysis and research methodologies is desirable, while a postgraduate project management qualification is an advantage. Candidates must have at least 10 years of professional experience in child survival, health, nutrition or related programmes, particularly in low- and middle-income or low-resource settings. At least three years of field experience is required. Experience managing grant-funded health and nutrition programmes, particularly in Northern Nigeria, is highly relevant. Candidates should understand Nigerian health systems and community structures, especially in Katsina and/or Jigawa. Experience working with local communities, government health systems, conflict-affected or hard-to-reach populations, and gender-responsive programming will be advantageous. Language and Core Competencies Fluency in written and spoken English is essential. Knowledge of Hausa or relevant local languages is an advantage. The ideal candidate should demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills, critical thinking, attention to detail, organisational ability and strong time-management skills. The ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary and multicultural teams, including remotely, is also required. Benefits and Safeguarding Nutrition International offers competitive market-based pay, health benefits, a pension plan, flexible working arrangements, vacation, learning and development opportunities, and health and wellness support. The organisation maintains a zero-tolerance approach to safeguarding violations, sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment. Recruitment is subject to appropriate screening and satisfactory reference checks, including safeguarding verification with previous employers. Application Deadline Interested Nigerian professionals who meet the required qualifications and experience are encouraged to apply before 4 September 2026. Because applications are assessed on a rolling basis, early submission is recommended. This opportunity is particularly suited to senior public health and nutrition professionals with substantial programme management experience and strong knowledge of health systems and communities in Northwestern Nigeria. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) does not take ownership or credit for the opportunities shared on this platform. All opportunities are sourced from official announcements and external sources for informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying. Opportunities may be updated or changed by the providing organisations.
Category
grant
Type
online
Organization / Source
globalsouthopportunities.com
Posted
August 25, 2026
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