Location: Abuja, Nigeria
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Application Status: Open
Application Deadline: 12 August 2025
The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) is currently accepting applications from qualified professionals who possess expertise in Social Policy and related areas. This recruitment is part of the organization’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its mission in Nigeria and support the well-being of every child.
Required Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following educational requirements: An advanced university degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in one of the following fields:
- Social Policy
- Economics
- Public Administration
- Development Studies
- Social Protection
- Or any other closely related discipline
How to Apply
Interested candidates should visit the official UNICEF careers page and navigate to current job openings in Nigeria. Applications must be completed online and include a detailed CV and cover letter.
Apply via: https://www.unicef.org/careers
Pro Tips for Successful Application
- Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter to UNICEF’s Mandate
Generic applications don’t work for international organizations like UNICEF. Focus your CV and cover letter on experiences that demonstrate your commitment to children’s welfare, inclusive social development, and policy reform. Use clear, impactful language and highlight your role in shaping or implementing social policy solutions.
- Show Evidence of Bridging Policy and Practice
UNICEF prioritizes candidates who can translate policy into action. If you’ve ever helped a government agency, nonprofit, or donor-funded project implement a policy, whether on education, health, cash transfers, or nutrition, be sure to show that in your application. Explain the impact of your work in measurable terms.
- Highlight Experience with Public Institutions or Development Agencies
UNICEF values candidates who understand how government systems and development partners operate. If you’ve worked with ministries, national statistical agencies, NGOs, UN bodies, or international donors, make sure this is visible in your profile. Experience with public finance, poverty assessments, or planning cycles is a definite advantage.
- Mention Your Technical and Analytical Capabilities
Quantitative skills are highly valued. If you’re familiar with data analysis tools like STATA, R, SPSS, or Excel for policy analysis, budgeting, or survey data interpretation, include this clearly. Mention your experience with MICS, DHS, national surveys, or budget analysis frameworks.
- Showcase Strong Interpersonal and Communication Skills
UNICEF jobs involve engaging with government partners, donors, and communities. Communication, negotiation, and cross-cultural collaboration are essential soft skills. Use your application to show how you’ve led teams, managed partnerships, or contributed to strategic dialogue.
- Prepare for a Multi-Stage Interview Process
If shortlisted, expect a structured interview process, often including:
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Competency-based questions (e.g., “Tell us about a time you led a policy reform process…”)
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Technical tasks (e.g., writing a policy brief or interpreting data)
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Scenario-based questions (e.g., “How would you improve social protection access in a conflict-affected area?”)
Practice with examples from your past work and keep your answers concise and results-oriented.
- Apply Early and Stay Engaged
Don’t wait until the last day to apply. Early applications are often reviewed first. After submitting, monitor your inbox for screening updates, test invitations, or interview messages. Keep all documents (CV, certificates, references) ready for quick submission if requested.
Working with UNICEF offers a chance to contribute to meaningful social change while building a career with global impact. If you meet the qualifications and align with the organization’s goals, now is the time to step forward with a polished, strategic application.