Internal Control and Audit Officer at Community Engagement & Social Development Initiative (CESDI)

Community Engagement & Social Development Initiative (CESDI) is a non-governmental organization committed to the sustainable livelihood of under privileged women, children and youth. CESDI is duly registered with the Nigerian Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) since 2014. The Organization is involved in community development, capacity building, economic empowerment, social counseling, social mobilization, raising awareness/ education on health and conflict resolution/peace building initiatives.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Internal Control and Audit Officer

Location: Damaturu, Yobe
Job type: Full-time (Onsite)
Contract Duration: 23 Months (Fixed Term)
Reports To: Executive Director / Project Manager
Funding Partner: Action Against Hunger (ACF) / CARE International
Project: Lake Chad Inclusive Economic and Social Recovery Project (RESILAC*2)

Position Summary

• The Internal Control and Audit Officer will provide independent assurance and advisory services to ensure effective internal controls, risk management, and compliance across all RESILAC*2 project operations.
• The post-holder will proactively identify risks, financial irregularities, and control weaknesses and recommend corrective actions to protect the organization's integrity and donor resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement an annual internal audit plan covering financial, operational, and programmatic areas of the RESILAC*2 project.
• Conduct regular internal audits of financial transactions, procurement processes, and program implementation to ensure compliance with organizational policies and donor requirements.
• Review and assess the adequacy and effectiveness of internal control systems and recommend improvements.
• Monitor compliance with ACF, CARE, AFD, and EU financial and programmatic rules, regulations, and contractual obligations.
• Conduct spot checks, field visits, and compliance reviews to verify proper use of project resources and adherence to procedures.
• Investigate suspected fraud, misappropriation, conflicts of interest, or other integrity concerns and produce confidential investigation reports.
• Review procurement processes, contracts, and vendor payments for compliance, transparency, and value for money.
• Assess risks associated with project activities and advise management on risk mitigation strategies.
• Review financial and program reports for accuracy, completeness, and consistency before submission to donors.
• Maintain a risk register and track implementation of audit recommendations and management action plans.
• Provide training and guidance to staff on internal controls, compliance, and safeguarding policies.
• Liaise with external auditors and support annual statutory audits.
• Ensure confidentiality and independence in all audit and control functions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Auditing, or a related field. Professional certification (CIA, ICAN, ACCA, or equivalent) is strongly preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in internal auditing, financial control, or compliance, preferably in the NGO/INGO sector.
• Strong understanding of internal audit standards, risk-based auditing, and fraud investigation.
• Demonstrated experience with donor-funded project compliance (EU, USAID, AFD, UN agencies).
• Knowledge of Nigerian financial regulations, tax laws, and public procurement standards.
• Experience in conflict-affected or humanitarian contexts is an advantage.
• Proficiency in accounting and audit software as well as Microsoft Office Suite.

Skills and Competencies:

• High ethical standards, integrity, and objectivity.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Diplomacy and professionalism when handling sensitive matters.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should send a Cover Letter, detailed CV, and copies of relevant Certificates to: humanresourcesunit@cesdinitiative.org with "Internal Control and Audit Officer – RESILAC2" as the subject of the email.

Note

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applications from women, persons with disabilities, and candidates from Yobe State are strongly encouraged.
• CESDI promotes zero tolerance of fraud, sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment. All staff are required to adhere to our organizational Code of Conduct and Safeguarding policies.