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Job information and description
Apply for the Project Adviser (Policy & Value Chain Engagement) LICA-9 position in Abuja. Support trade policy reforms, value chain development, and SME competitiveness under the ATCMA ECOWAS Programme
If you are passionate about trade policy, regional integration, and value chain development in West Africa, this exciting opportunity by the International Trade Centre (ITC) under the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is now open for qualified ECOWAS nationals. The role supports the ECOWAS component of the Africa Trade Competitiveness and Market Access (ATCMA) Programme, funded by the European Union.
Duty Station:
Abuja, Nigeria
Job Opening ID: 267878
Application Deadline: 7 December 2025
Organization: International Trade
Centre (ITC), UNOPS administered
Eligible Applicants: ECOWAS
Partner States only
Contract Level: LICA 9
(Consultant)
Expected Duration: Until 31
December 2026, with possible extension
About the ATCMA Programme
The Africa Trade Competitiveness and Market Access (ATCMA) Programme is a major continental initiative designed to boost intra-African trade and strengthen Africa–EU market linkages. Implemented by ITC and UNIDO, the programme works across five Regional Economic Communities (RECs): ECOWAS, COMESA, EAC, ECCAS, and SADC.
The ECOWAS component focuses on:
Key Strategic Outputs
Specific Objective 1: Trade & Investment Policy Improvements
- Output 1.1: Identify and reduce market access barriers
- Output 1.2: Strengthen quality standards & compliance (led by UNIDO)
- Output 1.3: Facilitate regional value chain review mechanisms (VCRMs)
Specific Objective 2: SME Competitiveness & Value Addition
- Output 2.1: Promote value addition & diversification (UNIDO)
- Output 2.2: Enhance SME capacity for business & export (ITC)
The advertised role covers Output 1.1, 1.3, and 2.2, focusing on policy reforms, regulatory harmonization, and activation of VCRMs across priority sectors.
Responsibilities of the Project Adviser (What You Will Do)
Reporting to the DMD/SPTI Programme Advisers, you will lead technical and advisory tasks that support regional policy dialogue, trade facilitation, and value chain integration.
Core Duties
- Support ECOWAS Commission and regional institutions to organize policy platforms, technical meetings, PPDs, and regional value chain workshops.
- Identify and prioritize regulatory barriers to trade and investment in sectors linked to AfCFTA and ECOWAS frameworks.
- Work with Senior Market Access Experts to design sustainable policy reforms.
- Coordinate and operationalize VCRM mechanisms for selected sectors.
- Track implementation progress and upload sector-level insights into the programme’s monitoring tools.
- Conduct research, analyze data, and evaluate the implications of trade reforms.
- Develop communication materials, policy briefs, press releases, social media content, and progress reports.
- Provide logistical, administrative, and technical support during national and regional events.
- Engage donor partners, private sector associations, government agencies, and VCRM focal points.
- Join field missions across ECOWAS countries when required.
Qualifications & Skills Required
Education
- Master’s degree in Economics, Trade, Law, Public Policy, Business, or related field.
- A Bachelor’s degree + 2 additional years of experience is acceptable.
Experience
- Minimum of 2 years in trade or investment-related research, economic policy, or development programmes.
- Experience with value chain or sector development is an added advantage.
- Previous involvement in project monitoring/reporting is desirable.
Key Competencies
- Strong economic analysis and data interpretation skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- Ability to manage multi-stakeholder processes
- Knowledge of ECOWAS/AfCFTA procedures is an added asset
- High attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office
Languages
- English: Required
- French and Portuguese: Advantageous
Estimated Salary & Benefits (LICA 9 – Nigeria)
Note: ITC/UNOPS salaries vary by duty station. The following reflects typical LICA 9 ranges in Nigeria.
Estimated Monthly Salary:
USD 4,000 – 5,500 (tax-exempt depending on UN rules)
Typical UNOPS Benefits include:
- Health insurance
- Paid annual leave
- Travel support (for official duties)
- Professional development opportunities
- Work–life balance friendly policies
- Multicultural working environment
Why This Job Is Relevant for Nigeria & ECOWAS
This role offers professionals the unique opportunity to influence trade policy and support SMEs across West Africa. In Nigeria specifically, it supports:
- Improved market access for local businesses
- Policy reforms that enhance trade competitiveness
- Strengthened value chains such as agriculture, manufacturing, and digital trade
- Regional integration under AfCFTA
How to Apply
Please ensure you meet all eligibility requirements before applying.
Application Tips (Recommended for Higher Success)
- Use a UN-style CV (STAR method).
- Clearly match your experience with Outputs 1.1 and 1.3 of the ATCMA programme.
- Highlight experience with policy analysis, value chain development, or economic research.
- Keep your Personal History Profile (PHP) updated in inspira.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is this job open to Nigerians?
Yes. Nigerians are ECOWAS nationals and therefore eligible.
2. Do I need UN experience?
Not required, but experience with international institutions is helpful.
3. Is relocation support provided?
Candidates outside Abuja must handle relocation at their own cost unless otherwise specified.
4. Can I apply without a Master’s degree?
Yes — a Bachelor’s plus two additional relevant years is acceptable.
5. Does UN charge any fee?
No. UN does not charge at any stage of recruitment.
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