Background
International Alert is an international peacebuilding organization working with people directly affected by conflict to build sustainable peace. In Nigeria, the organization implements programmes across multiple states, including fragile and conflict-affected regions.
Given the evolving security landscape characterized by conflict, criminality, and operational risks International Alert seeks to engage a Safety and Security Advisor (Consultant) to strengthen its safety and security systems and ensure duty of care for staff, partners, and assets.
Purpose of the Assignment
The purpose of this role is to review, strengthen, and support the implementation of safety and security frameworks for the Nigeria Country Programme. The consultant will provide technical expertise, advisory support, and capacity building to ensure that security risk management is aligned with international best practices.
Scope of Work
The consultant will work closely with programme and operations teams to assess current systems and provide practical recommendations and tools to enhance safety and security management across all operational locations.
Key Responsibilities
Security Risk Assessment and Analysis
- Conduct a comprehensive security risk assessment of programme locations.
- Analyse current and emerging security threats and conflict dynamics.
- Develop or update Security Risk Management Plans (SRMPs).
Review and Strengthening of Security Systems
- Review existing security policies, SOPs, and guidelines.
- Identify gaps and recommend improvements aligned with international standards.
- Develop or update:
- Country Security Plan
- Field Security Plans
- Emergency Response Procedures
Capacity Building
- Deliver training sessions and briefings for staff and partners on:
- Personal safety and security
- Field travel protocols
- Incident response and crisis management
- Strengthen internal capacity by supporting designated security focal points.
Incident Management Systems
- Review and strengthen incident reporting and tracking systems.
- Provide guidance on incident response protocols and documentation.
- Support development of post-incident review mechanisms.
Duty of Care and Safeguarding Integration
- Ensure alignment between security, safeguarding, and duty of care policies.
- Advise on mitigation measures related to staff safety and well-being.
Business Continuity and Contingency Planning
- Develop or update Business Continuity Plans (BCP).
- Support preparedness for:
- Emergency response
- Evacuation scenarios
- Operational disruptions
Advisory Support
- Provide ongoing technical advice to senior management on security risks and mitigation strategies.
- Support integration of security considerations into programme planning and implementation.
Deliverables
The consultant is expected to deliver:
- Updated Country Security Plan and SOPs
- Periodic security risk assessment reports
- Staff security training sessions conducted
- Incident reports and lessons learned documentation
- Functional incident reporting and tracking system
- Business Continuity and Emergency Response Plans
Duration and Level of Effort
- Duration: 6 months
- Level of Effort: 100 working days
- Duty station: Abuja, with possible travel to field locations within Nigeria
Reporting Line
The consultant will report to the Country Director (or designated representative) and work closely with programme and operations teams.
Required Qualifications and Experience
Education
- Master’s degree (MSc) in Security Studies, International Relations, Risk Management, or a related field
Experience
- Minimum of 7–10 years’ experience in safety and security management
- Demonstrated experience working as a Safety and Security Focal Point or Advisor outside Nigeria
- Proven experience in fragile and conflict-affected contexts
- Experience working with INGOs or international organizations
Skills and Competencies
- Strong security risk analysis and crisis management skills
- Experience developing security frameworks, SOPs, and contingency plans
- Excellent training and facilitation skills
- Strong understanding of global security standards and best practices
- High level of professionalism, integrity, and discretion
9. Core Competencies
- Strategic risk management
- Analytical and problem-solving skills
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Cultural sensitivity and adaptability
- Commitment to safeguarding and ethical standards
Ethical Considerations
The consultant must adhere to International Alert’s policies on:
- Safeguarding and PSEA
- Code of Conduct
- Confidentiality and data protection
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