Policy and Partnerships Officer

Position Overview

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a motivated professional to join the RISE (Resilient, Inclusive, Sustainable Economies) project, a five-year initiative funded by Global Affairs Canada aimed at promoting climate-resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth in Nigeria.

The project will be implemented by MEDA (Mennonite Economic Development Associates) in partnership with Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Ltd. Together, the two organizations will work to improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and small-scale entrepreneurs within the Rice, Maize, Groundnut and Soybean value chains, particularly women and youth in Bauchi, Kaduna and Kano states.

The initiative aligns with Canada's commitment to address gender equality, human rights, and environmental sustainability throughout its implementation.

Role Summary

The Policy and Partnerships Officer will lead engagement with government and private stakeholders, and relevant partners to shape and influence policy dialogues on the RISE program. The Officer will ensure alignment between project objectives and national/regional priorities, and champion evidence-based advocacy to enhance systemic impact and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

Policy Analysis and Strategic Engagement

• Analyze national and sub-national policies, frameworks, and institutional landscapes relevant to agriculture (in focus value chains), trade, gender, and climate change
• Identify policy opportunities and constraints affecting smallholder farmers, agri-SMEs, women, and youth
• Develop and implement a stakeholder engagement strategy to advance enabling policy environments

Stakeholder Relations and Partnership

• Build and maintain strong relationships with government ministries, regulatory bodies, regional institutions, and civil society actors
• Represent the RISE project in policy forums, working groups, and multi-stakeholder platforms
• Coordinate with MEDA and other project partners