Safety and Security Officer at Chabash Development and Health Initiative

Job Summary:

• The Safety and Security Officer will be responsible for ensuring the safety, security, and risk mitigation of CDHI staff, assets, and operations. The officer will implement security policies, conduct risk assessments, manage incident reporting, and provide training to staff on safety protocols. This role is crucial for safeguarding personnel and assets in field locations, particularly in areas affected by insecurity, conflict, or natural hazards.

Key Responsibilities

Risk Assessment and Security Planning

• Conduct regular security and safety risk assessments of offices, project sites, and field operations.
• Develop, update, and implement security and emergency preparedness plans.
• Identify potential threats, vulnerabilities, and risks to staff, programs, and assets.
• Advise management and field teams on mitigation measures and security protocols.

Staff Safety and Security

• Provide security briefings and guidance to staff and visitors before travel or field deployments.
• Monitor staff movements in high-risk areas and maintain communication protocols.
• Ensure staff awareness of personal security, road safety, and crisis response procedures.
• Assist in planning safe evacuation or relocation during emergencies.

Incident Management

• Establish and maintain incident reporting and tracking systems.
• Respond promptly to security incidents and coordinate appropriate interventions.
• Conduct investigations of security breaches or incidents and report findings to management.
• Maintain records of incidents, near-misses, and lessons learned for continuous improvement.

Coordination and Liaison

• Maintain strong relationships with local authorities, security agencies, and other NGOs for situational awareness.
• Represent CDHI in security coordination forums and working groups.
• Liaise with community leaders to ensure acceptance and cooperation in program areas.

Training and Capacity Building

• Organize and conduct security awareness and safety training sessions for staff, including induction for new hires.
• Provide guidance on safety measures for field travel, events, and community activities.
• Promote a culture of security consciousness across all program teams.

Compliance and Policy Implementation

• Ensure that all security operations comply with CDHI policies, donor requirements, and relevant regulations.
• Review and update the organization’s Security Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) regularly.
• Support internal and donor audits of security practices and documentation.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in security management, Risk Management, Public Safety, or related field (relevant certifications are an advantage).
• Minimum of 3–5 years’ experience in safety, security, or risk management, preferably in NGO or humanitarian contexts.
• Experience in developing security plans, conducting risk assessments, and managing incidents.
• Knowledge of local security environment, conflict dynamics, and emergency response in Nigeria.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and respond quickly in emergencies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and security reporting tools.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of local languages (Hausa, Kanuri, Fulfulde) is an added advantage.
• Willingness to travel frequently to field sites, including high-risk areas.

Core Competencies

• Risk assessment and emergency preparedness
• Crisis management and decision-making
• Security awareness and training facilitation
• Coordination with authorities and stakeholders
• Ethical conduct, confidentiality, and integrity
• Resilience, adaptability, and situational awareness