Political Officer HEO (03/22 PH) at British High Commission

Job Description (Roles and Responsibilities)  

Main purpose of job:

To provide analysis of the political situation in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria based on knowledge and understanding of the political leaders and parties, and of issues that matter to other diplomatic missions, civil society and non-state actors.

The British Office is a well-established office and the only diplomatic representation in the region.  As such the UK has a profile there not afforded to other diplomatic missions.  The role is essential to helping to the UK to establish new and maintain existing networks and understanding of the situation and challenges in the Niger Delta. It is an exciting and unique opportunity to contribute to deepening UK’s diplomatic presence and maximising its potential for positive impact in the Niger Delta. 

Roles and responsibilities:

• Political – Provide analysis of the political and security situation in the Niger Delta and the region for the UK and the UK’s regional network to build UK knowledge base, to enable the UK to respond to developments appropriately.  Advise the HC and other Embassy staff on engagement with the Nigerian political community.
• Political – Research and analysis on other thematic issues as needed by the UK, for example: human rights, the security situation, organised crime, soft power, prosperity opportunities and to allow the UK to evolve its policy and programme responses in the Niger Delta.
• Security – To act as the focal point for the Lagos Regional Security Manager in the Niger Delta, advising on current issues and trends, and providing advice on security matters, such as clearances and movements.  Responsibility for security issues relating to staff and the Office. 
• Consular – 10% of time on consular work, acting on instructions as necessary from Consular Teams in Abuja and Lagos (headed by HM Consul based in Lagos).  The individual should also maintain a strong network with British Nationals and companies in the region.
• Wider Mission support - As a full member of the team, the post holder will also make a wider contribution to making the Office a friendly and supportive environment to work in.  Where necessary, the post holder must be ready to support any other mission business (e.g. corporate work). 

Essential qualifications, skills and experience  

• Strong knowledge of the Nigerian and Niger Delta political systems and situation.
• Strong critical thinking skills – an ability to think independently, critically analyse information (including numerical information) and draw out conclusions.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to work at pace on multiple priorities at the same time, taking the initiative where required.
• IT literacy (Microsoft Word, Excel, Teams and other common software)
• Social media skills (Facebook, Twitter and other)
• Ability to work independently and unsupervised, and as part of a wider team.
• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject and previous employed experience.

Desirable qualifications, skills and experience  

• Experience of working with the Nigerian government and/or the international community in Nigeria.
• Experience of using communications professionally to promote organisations