Internal Control and Audit Officer at Community Engagement & Social Development Initiative (CESDI)

Project: Lake Chad Inclusive Economic and Social Recovery Project (RESILAC*2)

Location: Damaturu, Yobe State, Northeast Nigeria

Contract Duration: 23 Months (Fixed Term)

Reports To: Executive Director / Project Manager

Funding Partner: Action Against Hunger (ACF) / CARE International

Position Summary

The Internal Control and Audit Officer will provide independent assurance and advisory services to ensure effective internal controls, risk management, and compliance across all RESILAC*2 project operations. The post-holder will proactively identify risks, financial irregularities, and control weaknesses and recommend corrective actions to protect the organization's integrity and donor resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement an annual internal audit plan covering financial, operational, and programmatic areas of the RESILAC*2 project.
• Conduct regular internal audits of financial transactions, procurement processes, and program implementation to ensure compliance with organizational policies and donor requirements.
• Review and assess the adequacy and effectiveness of internal control systems and recommend improvements.
• Monitor compliance with ACF, CARE, AFD, and EU financial and programmatic rules, regulations, and contractual obligations.
• Conduct spot checks, field visits, and compliance reviews to verify proper use of project resources and adherence to procedures.
• Investigate suspected fraud, misappropriation, conflicts of interest, or other integrity concerns and produce confidential investigation reports.
• Review procurement processes, contracts, and vendor payments for compliance, transparency, and value for money.
• Assess risks associated with project activities and advise management on risk mitigation strategies.
• Review financial and program reports for accuracy, completeness, and consistency before submission to donors.
• Maintain a risk register and track implementation of audit recommendations and management action plans.
• Provide training and guidance to staff on internal controls, compliance, and safeguarding policies.
• Liaise with external auditors and support annual statutory audits.
• Ensure confidentiality and independence in all audit and control functions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Auditing, or a related field. Professional certification (CIA, ICAN, ACCA, or equivalent) is strongly preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in internal auditing, financial control, or compliance, preferably in the NGO/INGO sector.
• Strong understanding of internal audit standards, risk-based auditing, and fraud investigation.
• Demonstrated experience with donor-funded project compliance (EU, USAID, AFD, UN agencies).
• Knowledge of Nigerian financial regulations, tax laws, and public procurement standards.
• Experience in conflict-affected or humanitarian contexts is an advantage.
• Proficiency in accounting and audit software as well as Microsoft Office Suite.

Skills and Competencies

• High ethical standards, integrity, and objectivity.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Diplomacy and professionalism when handling sensitive matters.