Legal Adviser 1 at ICRC - International Committee of the Red Cross

Job Code: ABJ202100194

Job Description

• Under the supervision of the Operational Legal Coordinator, the Legal Adviser 1 advises on national implementation of international humanitarian law (IHL) in Nigeria as well as maintaining an extensive and effective network among the Government of the Federation, Nigerian authorities, the National Assembly, and other relevant actors (CSO, etc.) for that purpose.
• He / she initiates, formulates and implements strategies to advance ratification of relevant treaties and national implementation of the law
• He / she guides research on related issues as well as analysis of the national legal system, including repression of violations of IHL.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Analyses the situation, advises and provides guidance on the national implementation of IHL and international human rights law (IHRL) and related political developments
• Monitors developments in the national implementation of IHL and relevant international human rights law (IHRL) norms
• Sets and follows up on objectives, strategies and plans of action to address identified legal issues related to national implementation of IHL
• Represents the delegation in meetings with external partners and contacts. In particular, maintains close relationship with and interacts with the National IHL Committee and key members of that Committee
• Establishes and maintains an effective network of actors of influence within the civil society and the Government of Nigeria, notably the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Presidency, the Vice-Presidency, the National Assembly
• Is responsible for the implementation of strategies, programmes and action plans related to IHL treaty participation, the development of relevant domestic legal and policy frameworks and mechanisms for their implementation
• Provides legal advice and technical assistance to national authorities
• Supports IHL dissemination activities directed at specialized audiences
• Coordinates and supervises external consultancies on legal issues
• Ensures coordination and flow of information to the Regional Legal Adviser as well as other relevant departments within the ICRC.

Education and Experience Required

• Degree in Law
• Called to the Nigerian Bar an asset
• Studied international law with a strong understanding of international humanitarian, human rights and criminal law
• 3 - 5 years relevant work experience, preferably in international humanitarian law, international human rights law, and Nigerian criminal law
• Relevant work experience in international organisations, Nigerian organisations or Government.

Desired Profile and Skills:

• Proven research and analytical skills; able to think critically and articulate legal arguments in a structured and professional manner
• Excellent spoken and written English; passive understanding of French as asset
• Excellent writing and oral communication skills
• Computer literacy (competency in Microsoft Office and legal research databases)
• Understanding of the work and role of the ICRC in Nigeria.