Applications are now open for the Consultant – Religious and Traditional Leaders Engagement position in Lagos, Nigeria, offered by the International Organization for Migration. This consultancy role presents a unique opportunity for experienced professionals in migration governance, communication, and social behavior change to contribute to impactful projects addressing migration challenges in Nigeria.
With a strong focus on collaboration with religious and traditional leaders, this role is central to strengthening migration governance, protection systems, and community engagement across multiple Nigerian states.
About the Organization
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), established in 1951, is a leading intergovernmental organization and a key partner within the United Nations system. IOM works globally to promote humane and orderly migration, providing support and guidance to governments and migrants alike.
Through its programs, IOM focuses on:
- Migration governance
- Protection of vulnerable populations
- Reintegration and sustainable development
- Community-based engagement strategies
Position Overview
- Role: Consultant – Religious and Traditional Leaders Engagement
- Location: Lagos
- Contract Type: Consultancy (up to 11 months)
- Initial Duration: 6 months
- Application Deadline: May 7, 2026
- Job ID: 19887
This consultancy is part of IOM Nigeria’s Migration Management initiatives, supported by international partners including the Government of the Netherlands and the European Union.
Project Context and Scope
This role operates within major programs such as:
- COMPASS 2.0 (Cooperation for Migration Partnerships on Sustainable Solutions)
- EU-funded Support to Migration Governance Programme
The consultancy aims to strengthen collaboration with religious and traditional leaders to:
- Promote safe and regular migration
- Support victims of trafficking (TiP/SoM)
- Improve referral systems and protection frameworks
- Drive behavior change at the community level
The project spans multiple states, including:
- Lagos
- Edo
- Delta
- Kano
Key Responsibilities
The consultant will lead strategic and operational activities, including:
1. Network Strengthening
- Map and engage religious and traditional stakeholders
- Expand and institutionalize leader networks across four states
- Finalize and implement engagement roadmaps
2. Behavior Change Strategy
- Co-develop culturally sensitive communication tools
- Create sermon guides and IEC materials
- Promote safe migration messaging across faith communities
3. Referral and Protection Systems
- Establish and strengthen referral pathways
- Align faith actors with national referral mechanisms (NRM)
- Develop SOPs and protection frameworks
4. Stakeholder Engagement
- Facilitate national and state-level dialogues
- Coordinate community outreach initiatives
- Document commitments and outcomes
5. Knowledge Management
- Track sermon delivery and outreach impact
- Produce reports, case studies, and learning briefs
- Monitor community sentiment and engagement
Deliverables and Performance Indicators
The consultant will be evaluated based on key outputs:
- Inception report and workplan (30%)
- Network and behavior change toolkit development (40%)
- National and state dialogues (20%)
- Final reports and knowledge products (10%)
Required Qualifications
Education
- Advanced degree in:
- Communication studies
- Behavioral science
- Social sciences
- Migration management
Experience
- Minimum 6 years in migration governance, protection, or SBC/C4D
- At least 4 years in strategic communication and advocacy
- Experience working with religious/traditional institutions
- Proven track record in developing behavior change tools
Skills
- Strong analytical and communication skills
- Public speaking and facilitation expertise
- Proficiency in MS Office and data tools
- Ability to produce high-quality reports
Languages
- Fluency in English (required)
- Knowledge of Nigerian languages (preferred)
Core Competencies
IOM seeks candidates who demonstrate:
- Integrity and professionalism
- Respect for diversity and inclusion
- Strong teamwork and collaboration
- Accountability and results-driven mindset
- Effective communication and leadership
Benefits and Work Conditions
While this is a consultancy role, selected candidates will benefit from:
- High-level international exposure
- Collaboration with UN systems and global partners
- Opportunity to influence migration policy and community outcomes
- Coverage under IOM’s occupational Compensation Plan
Note: Consultants must provide their own health insurance for non-work-related conditions.
Important Notes
- IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy on misconduct, including harassment and discrimination
- No application fees are required at any stage
- Only applications submitted through the official IOM recruitment system will be considered
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted
How to Apply
Applicants must submit their application through the official IOM e-Recruitment platform before the deadline.
For more information click here
Discover more opportunities here
