Political Adviser III at ICRC – International Committee of the Red Cross

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is the largest humanitarian network in the world. Its mission is to alleviate human suffering, protect life and health, and uphold human dignity especially during armed conflicts and other emergencies. It is present in every country and supported by millions of volunteers.

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is dedicated to preventing and alleviating human suffering in warfare and in emergencies such as epidemics, floods and earthquakes.

It is not a single organization. It is composed of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the 189 individual National Societies. Each has its own legal identity and role, but they are all united by seven Fundamental Principles.

These principles are humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality. Each component of the Movement is committed to respect and uphold them.

The ICRC’s exclusively humanitarian mission is to protect the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence and to provide them with assistance. It directs and coordinates the Movement’s international relief activities during armed conflicts. Established in 1863, it is at the origin of the Movement.

The Federation inspires, facilitates and promotes all humanitarian activities carried out by its member National Societies on behalf of the most vulnerable people. It directs and coordinates its members’ actions to assist the victims of natural and technological disasters, refugees and those affected by health emergencies. It was founded in 1919.The Purpose

Under the supervision of the Head of Delegation (HoD), the Political Adviser 3 advises the delegation on political developments and changes in the overall environment, conflict and security dynamics.
S/he identifies, maintains and broadens high-level relations with stakeholders and facilitates the management’s access to a wide network of contacts.
His/her overall responsibility is to design and deliver effective engagement strategies with Nigerian authorities and other stakeholders in collaboration with other departments.
S/he contributes to widening/ consolidating the ICRC’s network of relevant and meaningful interlocutors in close coordination with the management of the delegation.

Your Role

Monitors, analyses and advises the delegation on political issues, the conflict and security situation in Nigeria, including the views and policy objectives of national authorities, opposition leaders, think-tanks, international organizations, NGOs, and the diplomatic community.
Builds, maintains, and expands a high-level network of contacts, including government officials, parliamentarians, political opposition, and other key stakeholders. Facilitates access for management as needed.
Supports the Delegation management in its strategic engagement and dialogue with relevant Nigerian authorities and embassies, Identifying areas of convergence between ICRC and Nigerian policy interests, incl. through concept notes, analysis, and stakeholder mapping.
Contributes strategically to internal coordination mechanism of ICRC prevention/operation, working with Management and Coordinators to strengthen its external influence and diplomatic role.
Organizes briefings on political context and cultural sensitivities for delegation staff.
Produces analytical reports, briefing notes, and other documentation to support political engagement and inform internal stakeholders.
Contributes to the delegation’s operational priorities and humanitarian diplomacy efforts in Nigeria
Maintains a network of high-level governmental official across the various tribal/power groups and identities, ensuring the ICRC acceptance and support
Regularly provides the HoD/Senior management with relevant analysis on major political/security/socio-economic developments with regards to internal power dynamics.
Highlight major developments and their consequences for the ICRC operations and perception/acceptance in the country
Follow-up on important issues on behalf of the HoD notably with the government authorities on privileges and immunities, ICRC status, mandate and exemptions.
Participates to the management of security with the Field Security and Criss Management (FSCM) and her/his team to contribute to ICRC overall acceptance and respect.
Supports the management of the delegation in grasping the complex tribal dynamics reflected at the government level and help navigating those.

Your profile: Education & Experience

University Degree (preferably a master’s degree)
6–10 years’ professional experience as a manager or programme officer in similar fields, organizations or governmental structures.
Confirmed strong skills in political analysis, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement and reporting within a similar field of activity.
Ability to explore and maintain a relevant network of contacts, and proven experience in cultivating networks.
Strong sense of diplomacy
Excellent communication skills (English – written and oral)
Applicant must have a valid working permit to work in Nigeria.

What We Offer

Rewarding work in a humanitarian and multicultural environment.
Competitive employment package with medical insurance and ICRC pension plan.
In-house training opportunities for personal development.
A full-time, Fixed-term contract.
The opportunity to join an ICRC talent pool, be considered for future assignments elsewhere and experience different contexts, fields, and challenges.