Counsellor at The West African Centre for Public Health and Development (WACPHD)

Description

• The West African Centre for Public Health and Development (WACPHD), in collaboration with the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) and other stakeholders, is implementing the Integrated Biological and Behavioural Surveillance Survey (IBBSS) 2026 across selected states in Nigeria.
• The IBBSS is a nationally representative public health survey designed to generate reliable biological and behavioural data among key populations, including Female Sex Workers (FSW), Men who have Sex with Men (MSM), and People Who Inject Drugs (PWID). The findings from this survey will support evidence-based planning, strengthen program response, and guide national and state-level HIV preventions, care and health interventions.
• As part of this important initiative, WACPHD seeks to engage qualified, experienced, and committed professionals to support field implementation, data collection, laboratory services, and overall project coordination across the designated states for the following positions.

Executive Summary

• The counsellor serves as the intermediary between the interviewer and the laboratorian during the data and blood sample collection process.
• The counsellor positions are to be applied for by typology (FSW, MSM and PWID). S/he will be responsible for validating that participant gave consent during contact with interviewer.

The counsellor under the supervision of the IBBSS Field Supervisor will carry out the following:

• Conduct pre and post counseling for all participants who consent to the survey in line with national counselling guidelines.
• Ensure that ethical standards are adhered to during the field implementation.
• Directs participants to laboratorian for testing
• Facilitate referrals to OSS/KP friendly facilities for treatment and care services
• May also serve as an interviewer if the need arises.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Relevant degree or Diploma in Social Sciences, Sciences or Education.
• Trained on HIV counseling and testing.
• 3+ years previous experience working with Key Population in counseling and testing.
• Good interpersonal skills and communication with consenting participants.
• Previous experience working on WACPHD/IGPH projects is an added advantage
• Knowledge of the local dialect is also paramount.
• Residence in the selected state is required.