UNICEF: International Consultant for Development of National Education in Nigeria

UNICEF Nigeria is officially inviting applications for the high-level position of International Consultant for Development of National Education in Nigeria. This critical 12-month consultancy, based in Abuja, offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of learning for Africa’s most populous nation.

Nigeria currently stands at a significant educational crossroads. With a child population projected to hit 124 million by 2030, the demand for robust strategic planning has never been more urgent. As an International Consultant for Development of National Education in Nigeria, you will be the primary technical driver in creating a 10-year roadmap (2027–2036) to ensure every child has access to quality, inclusive learning.

JOIN OUR WHATSAPP GROUP FOR UPDATES

Quick Job Summary

• Official Title: International Consultant for Development of National Education in Nigeria
• Job No: 592179
• Location: Abuja, Nigeria
• Contract Type: Consultant (12 Months)
• Category: Education / Strategic Planning
• Deadline: April 20, 2026 (W. Central Africa Standard Time)

The Challenge: Nigeria’s Education Landscape

Nigeria presents a complex humanitarian and development context. Despite progress, the sector faces stark statistical realities that the International Consultant for Development of National Education in Nigeria must address:

• Out-of-School Children: Approximately 10.2 million primary-age and 8.1 million junior secondary-age children remain out of the classroom.
• Learning Poverty: 75% of children aged 7–14 lack foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN) skills.
• Proficiency Gaps: By Junior Secondary 2, only 14% of students reach minimum proficiency levels in Mathematics.

Scope of Work: Your Impact Areas

The International Consultant for Development of National Education in Nigeria will lead two critical phases of work in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education (FME) and the Technical Working Group (TWG).

Activity 1: Education Sector Analysis (ESA)

Before building a plan, you must understand the bottlenecks. You will:

• Develop the draft framework for the ESA, including data collection and analytical methods.
• Review available data and identify critical information gaps.
• Moderate workshops to coach the TWG in analyzing results and drafting sectoral chapters.

Activity 2: Developing NESSP 2027-2036

Using the ESA results, the International Consultant for Development of National Education in Nigeria will lead the creation of the National Education Sector Strategic Plan:

• Draft the NESSP framework covering vision, targets, and operational plans.
• Guide the TWG through the synthesis of findings into a cohesive 10-year strategy.
• Facilitate joint review meetings with wider stakeholders to ensure national ownership.

Candidate Requirements: Are You the Right Expert?

UNICEF is seeking an International Consultant for Development of National Education in Nigeria who can navigate complex governmental structures and drive data-backed results.

• Academic Background: Advanced university degree in Education, International Development, or Social Sciences.
• Sector Expertise: At least 5 years of experience in conducting Education Sector Analysis (ESA) and supporting governments in developing strategic plans.
• Capacity Building: Proven experience in training and coaching government officers in low- and middle-income countries.
• Regional Context: Prior experience in Sub-Saharan Africa and experience in emergency education contexts.

ALSO READ

• UNICEF Internship Job 2026 – Executive Director Office Internship in New York (3 Months).
• Amnesty Consultant Job 2026 – Amazing Website Engineer Opportunity with Amnesty International
• UNDP Paid Internship 2026 | New York / Home-Based Effective Development Cooperation

Why Join UNICEF Nigeria?

As one of the largest UNICEF Country Offices globally, Nigeria offers a platform for massive scale. This International Consultant for Development of National Education in Nigeria role allows you to:

• Lead National Change: Influence the strategic direction of an entire nation’s education system.
• Professional Growth: Work within a culture that helps staff thrive while delivering a rewarding mission.
• Mission-Driven Work: Directly contribute to the realization of the Rights of the Child in a high-priority region.

JOIN OUR WHATSAPP GROUP FOR UPDATES

How to Apply

To be considered for the International Consultant for Development of National Education in Nigeria vacancy, submit your application via the UNICEF Talent Management System. Your application must include:

1. A Tailored CV highlighting ESA and NESSP experience.
2. All-Inclusive Financial Proposal (using the official UNICEF form).

Help bridge the gap in Nigeria’s education system. Apply by April 20, 2026.

Apply via the Official UNICEF Careers Portal