Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) continue to create meaningful career opportunities for Nigerians passionate about humanitarian work, advocacy, health, education, and development. If you’re seeking NGO job openings in Lagos or Abuja, this guide highlights the latest trends, types of roles available, required skills, and how to successfully apply.

Why Work with an NGO?

Working in an NGO is more than a job—it’s a chance to make a real impact. Employees often contribute to social change, community development, healthcare initiatives, and global missions. Additionally, many international NGOs offer competitive salaries, training, and travel opportunities.

Top NGOs Hiring in Lagos and Abuja

1. International NGOs

Organizations like the UN, World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and ActionAid frequently recruit for program officers, communication experts, and project managers.

2. Health-Focused NGOs

Groups such as Doctors Without Borders (MSF), Jhpiego, and Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) hire healthcare professionals, field coordinators, and monitoring officers.

3. Education and Youth NGOs

NGOs like Teach for Nigeria, Plan International, and Save the Children focus on youth empowerment, requiring community mobilizers, trainers, and education officers.

Common NGO Roles Available

• Program Officer

Responsible for managing projects, coordinating field activities, and reporting progress to donors.

• Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) Officer

Tracks project performance, collects data, and ensures success indicators are met.

• Communications and Advocacy Officer

Handles public relations, social media, and outreach campaigns to promote the organization’s mission.

• Finance and Grants Manager

Manages donor funds, budgeting, compliance, and financial reporting.

• Field/Community Worker

Engages directly with communities to implement health, education, or social programs.

Required Skills for NGO Jobs

• Project Management
• Data Collection and Reporting
• Communication and Teamwork
• Proposal Writing
• Fieldwork and Community Engagement

Certifications in M&E, project management, public health, or humanitarian response are highly valuable.

How to Find NGO Jobs in Lagos and Abuja

1. Job Portals

Websites like LagosJobs.com.ng regularly publish verified NGO job openings across Nigeria.

2. NGO Career Pages

Visit the official websites of NGOs such as UNICEF, UNDP, and MSF to check vacancies.

3. LinkedIn and Professional Networks

Follow NGO pages and join development-focused groups to receive updates on open roles.

Tips for Applying to NGO Jobs

• Tailor Your CV

Highlight relevant humanitarian experience, volunteering, or community service.

• Include Volunteer Work

NGOs value passion and field experience—even unpaid roles count.

• Showcase Soft Skills

Empathy, cultural sensitivity, and teamwork are crucial in NGO environments.

Example of a Successful NGO CV Summary

“Field Coordinator with 3 years of experience in community health programs, trained in Monitoring & Evaluation, passionate about rural development and child protection.”

Interview Tips for NGO Roles

• Research the organization’s mission
• Be ready to discuss real challenges you’ve faced
• Show commitment to humanitarian values

Salaries and Benefits in NGO Roles

While salaries vary, international NGOs often pay competitively, offer health insurance, travel allowances, and capacity-building training.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need a degree to work in an NGO?
   Not always. Experience in community work or specialized training can qualify you for certain roles.
2. Can I apply without field experience?
   Yes, entry-level roles like program assistant or volunteer positions are open to fresh graduates.
3. Which cities have the most NGO jobs?
   Lagos and Abuja host the headquarters of many local and international NGOs, making them top locations.

Conclusion

NGO careers are fulfilling and impactful, offering opportunities to serve communities while building professional experience. Whether you’re passionate about education, health, or social change, now is the time to explore NGO jobs in Lagos and Abuja.

Ready to find current NGO job openings? Visit LagosJobs.com.ng today for the latest humanitarian and development job listings!