Child Protection Officer position With UNICEF
The United Nations Children’s Fund Nigeria is currently offering a career opportunity for Nigerian nationals under a UN Volunteer (UNV) Child Protection Officer position based in Sokoto State. This role forms part of UNICEF’s broader commitment to safeguarding children’s rights and improving access to essential protection services for vulnerable populations.
This assignment focuses on strengthening child protection systems in Sokoto and Zamfara States, where children and families continue to face significant risks, including violence, abuse, exploitation, psychosocial distress, and limited access to essential services. The programme supports integrated child protection interventions, including Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS), birth registration, gender-based violence response, and community-based protection systems.
The UNV Child Protection Officer will work under the supervision of UNICEF’s Child Protection Specialist in Sokoto, with technical oversight from the Child Protection Manager in Abuja. The role involves supporting the implementation of school-based psychosocial support programmes, strengthening child-friendly spaces, and improving referral systems for vulnerable children. The officer will also contribute to the training of teachers and school administrators on MHPSS, support child protection desks in schools, and help ensure that children affected by violence and conflict receive appropriate care and support.
In addition, the role includes strengthening the capacity of social service workers, supporting birth registration initiatives for children under one year, and promoting community engagement through behaviour change communication and positive parenting programmes. The officer will also contribute to monitoring, reporting, data management, and coordination with government agencies, implementing partners, and community structures.
Applicants must be Nigerian nationals or legal residents with at least three years of relevant experience in child protection, social development, or related fields. A Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Psychology, Sociology, International Development, Human Rights, or related disciplines is required. Experience in humanitarian or development settings, particularly within UN or international organizations, is considered an advantage.
This opportunity is open to professionals committed to advancing child protection, strengthening community systems, and contributing to sustainable development outcomes for children and adolescents in Northern Nigeria.
Application Link:
https://app.unv.org/opportunities/1784888021268639
