Population and Data Specialist
Organizational Context
UNFPA is the lead UN agency for delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. This role sits within the UNFPA Nigeria Country Office, reporting to the Deputy Representative. The position contributes to the UNFPA Strategic Plan 2026-2029, focusing on adapting to demographic change through evidence-based and rights-based policies, and strengthening national capacity for data-driven decision-making.
Job Purpose
The Population and Data Specialist leads the Policy, Population and Data Unit, advancing UNFPA's work on demographic change, population dynamics, and evidence-based development planning. Reporting to the Deputy Representative, the role provides strategic support for achieving country program outputs, offering technical expertise and quality assurance. The specialist advises on national development policies, ensuring UNFPA priorities are integrated into discussions with government and development partners. This includes strategic advocacy and policy advice at high levels, facilitating UNFPA's interactions with government, and managing implementing partners. The incumbent acts as an analyst and advisor, proactively informing leadership on program implementation results.
Responsibilities
The role involves strategic policy leadership, integrating population dynamics into national development planning and leading high-level policy dialogues with government and development partners to incorporate UNFPA's priorities and the ICPD agenda into national policies and plans. This includes contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework and ensuring UN system-wide policy coherence. The specialist translates global and regional frameworks using population data and demographic intelligence to inform country-specific strategies and crafts evidence-based advocacy messages. They support program teams in tracking national commitments and utilize data to inform policy dialogue, strategic planning, and advocacy for SRHR and GBV prevention. The role also involves developing white papers, policy briefs, and providing technical advice on population change and data policies. A key responsibility is developing and implementing a political engagement strategy with key stakeholders and strengthening media and stakeholder engagement to raise awareness. The incumbent represents UNFPA in strategic forums and supports integration into the Delivering as One modality. Additionally, the role oversees support for national census, population surveys, civil registration systems, and strengthening national information systems, advocating for data use and demographic foresight to harness Nigeria's demographic dividend.
Work Experience
Requires at least 7 years of progressively responsible professional experience in Population and Data, with strong knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methods. Experience in results-based programme management, strategic planning, and capacity building is essential. Previous experience with the UN, understanding of human rights dimensions, and national/sectoral policy dialogue are assets. Proficiency in office software and corporate IT systems, with demonstrated ability to produce quality policy analysis and compelling presentations, is necessary. Experience in development planning, policy processes, and large-scale national surveys/censuses is also beneficial.
Skills
Key skills include analytical and strategic thinking, results orientation, commitment to excellence, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning. Competencies encompass integrity, commitment to UNFPA's mandate, embracing diversity and change, performance management, developing people, coaching, mentoring, fostering innovation, and teamwork. The role requires self-management, emotional intelligence, and effective communication. Technical expertise in population data, research, population dynamics, advocacy, and delivering results-based programs is crucial. Experience in building strategic alliances and partnerships is also important.