Program Manager, Democracy & Governance at Yiaga Africa Initiative

Yiaga Africa is a non-profit civic hub of change-makers committed to promoting democratic governance, human rights, and civic engagement. Based in Abuja, Nigeria, Yiaga Africa conducts in-depth research, analyzes democratic and governance issues, develops practical solutions, and empowers citizens to drive change in their communities. The organization has a presence in all 36 states and 774 LGAs of Nigeria and implements innovative programs to promote active citizenship, protect human rights, and deepen democracy.

Yiaga Africa fosters a diverse, vibrant, and inclusive workforce. We encourage applications from young women and persons with disabilities. All applications are treated with strict confidentiality. We do not tolerate any form of sexual exploitation, harassment, abuse, or discrimination. Selected candidates will undergo thorough background checks and training.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Program Manager, Democracy & Governance

Location: Abuja, Nigeria
Type of Contract: Full-time
Department: Programs
Post Level: Mid-Level
Duration of Initial Contract: One year initially (Extendable)

Background

• Yiaga Africa is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Program Manager, Democracy & Governance, to lead its strategic initiatives and projects focused on legislative engagement, electoral integrity, digital democracy, and civic participation.
• This position offers an exciting opportunity to work on the frontlines of democratic development in Nigeria and across Africa.
• The successful candidate will possess deep knowledge of governance and political systems, exceptional program management skills, and the ability to drive impactful engagement with citizens, institutions, and policymakers.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of all Democracy & Governance programs, including elections, legislative advocacy, digital democracy, and civic participation.
• Lead the planning, implementation, and evaluation of projects to ensure alignment with organizational goals and donor requirements.
• Manage program budgets, workplans, and performance metrics.
• Supervise a team of program officers and ensure quality delivery through mentoring and support.
• Build partnerships with key stakeholders, including government institutions, civil society, and development partners.
• Represent Yiaga Africa at high-level meetings, forums, and media engagements.
• Oversee the development and dissemination of research, policy briefs, and knowledge products related to democracy and governance.
• Support resource mobilization through proposal development and donor engagement.
• Ensure compliance with internal and external reporting obligations.
• Innovate new program approaches in response to emerging democratic trends and challenges.

Required Skills and Experience

• A minimum of 10 years of experience working on democracy and governance issues, with at least 5 years in a managerial role.
• Advanced Degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, International Relations, or a related field.
• Experience managing multi-donor funded projects with demonstrated impact.
• Strong understanding of elections, legislative engagement, civic innovation, and/or digital democracy.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing teams and building partnerships.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and project management tools.

Corporate Competencies:

• Demonstrates integrity and models the values of Yiaga Africa.
• Promotes the vision and mission of the organization.
• Embraces diversity and inclusion.

Functional Competencies:

• Strong understanding of Nigeria’s political and governance context.
• Excellent knowledge of global and regional democracy and governance trends.
• Ability to influence policy and facilitate multi-stakeholder engagements.

Managerial Competencies:

• Proven track record in managing people, budgets, and donor-funded projects.
• Strong analytical and strategic planning skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Language Requirements:

• Fluency in written and spoken English. Proficiency in French and/or another Nigerian language is an advantage.

Application Closing Date
18th August, 2025.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Application Instruction

• Interested candidates should complete the application form and upload their detailed resume, including LinkedIn ID, age, address, and other requested information, using the application link

Note

• Only applications submitted in the required format will be considered.
• ONLY shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis in MS Word