Embeddd Technical Adviser -SSRG at GIZ Nigeria

Programme Background

Since 2006, GIZ through the commissioning and funding of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) implemented the “Support Programme to the Commission of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)”. The Programme was aimed at strengthening the Commission in executing its core mandate of facilitating economic and political integration. GIZ support has had a focus in three principal areas including: 1) Organisational Development, 2) Trade and Customs, and 3) Peace and Security in which the Programme supported the strengthening of sector-specific expertise as well as strategic planning and management structures, capacities and processes.

Presently, GIZ implements the “ECOWAS Peace and Security Architecture and Operations” (EPSAO) Project with co-funding from the European Union (EU) and the BMZ. The main objective of the project is to support ECOWAS in the prevention and management of conflict and security threats in West Africa. The project’s interventions are underpinned by four strategic areas of focus: the strengthening of ECOWAS mechanisms for the promotion and maintenance of peace, stability and post-crisis operations; enabling ECOWAS to manage emerging or existing conflicts; supporting non-violent, fair, transparent and inclusive electoral processes; and contributing to the creation of a secure and safe post conflict environment.

As part of its conflict resolution and management efforts, the EPSAO project supports ECOWAS in promoting the dissemination and awareness of its 2016 regional Security Sector Reform and Governance (SSRG) Policy Framework, and in assisting Member States’ efforts towards security sectors that are effective, transparent and accountable to their citizens and fully committed to democratic norms and principles.

To ensure a smooth and efficient roll-out of ECOWAS priorities and measures related to SSRG, EPSAO is looking for an SSRG Adviser who will be embedded within the ECOWAS Commission

A.       Responsibilities and Tasks:

This position is located the ECOWAS Regional Security Division of the Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security. The Embedded Adviser, Security Sector Reform and Governance, provides technical support to the conceptualization and implementation of ECOWAS Security Sector Reform and Governance related strategies and initiatives.

The Embedded Adviser will undertake the following roles and functions:

• Assist the Head of Regional Security Division in the planning, implementation, coordination, monitoring and evaluation of SSRG programmes/projects in countries and at regional level
• Provide technical advice on policy development, research, and present knowledge products including analytical reports, background papers, and briefing notes
• Assist in programme information, dissemination, as well as implementation of ECOWAS communication strategy
• Assist in organizing programme activities such as workshops, seminars, including making addresses on behalf of the ECOWAS Commission
• In the absence of the Head of Regional Security Division, monitor and directs all communications as appropriate
• Support lessons learnt, knowledge management and transfer within the Directorate of Peacekeeping and Regional Security (DPKRS)
• Contribute input into reports on the EPSAO project implementation, with analysis of project achievements, challenges and opportunities
• Ensure consistent adherence to ECOWAS, GIZ and EU requirements
• Ensure smooth and regular communication between the ECOWAS Regional Security Division and EPSAO, and ensure regular exchange with the EPSAO SSRG Component Head; and
• Undertake other duties as assigned by the Head of Regional Security Division and GIZ

B.   Required qualifications, competences and experience

 1.    Qualifications

• Advanced University degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Political Science, International Relations or any related Social Sciences or Security Studies related background and education;
• Internationally recognized course on Security Sector Reform is an added advantage.

2.    Professional experience

• 7 years of progressively responsible experience in Political Affairs, Governance, Diplomacy, conflict resolution, information management security or related field;
• Understanding of political, governance and security dynamics, conflict prevention management and resolution;
• Technical competence to conduct information gathering, research and analysis.
• Strong knowledge of ECOWAS, AU and UN policies, strategies and approaches in Security Sector Reform and Governance is required;
• Experience in supporting development of regional and national security policies/strategies will be an advantage;
• Significant knowledge and experience in project management, monitoring and evaluation;
• Experience of interacting with interlocutors at senior authority level;
• Experience in providing facilitation and moderation skills, and experience in designing, organising and evaluating capacity-building measures is desired;
• Experience working in an international organization or at a multi-country level highly desirable;
• Excellent interpersonal skills;
• Displaying a high sense of flexibility and political sensitivity;
•  Excellent communication and reporting skills and the ability to present information in a clear and concise manner; and
• Proficiency in information communication technologies (ICT);
• Spoken and written language skills in English is required for this position. Working knowledge of the French language will be an added advantage. Team Player
• Ability to work under pressure, stay on track and meet deadlines
• Travel in the region and beyond as may be required for events and activities

C.   Contract duration and duty station

Contract duration: 1st June 2022 to 31 January 2023 with potential for renewal until 2024, subject to the planned extension of the EPSAO Project by its commissioning parties.

Duty Station: Abuja, Nigeria