The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is inviting applications from qualified candidates for the position of Programme Assistant (G-5) in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. The successful candidate will provide administrative, operational and programme support to help the organisation implement and monitor its activities.
This opportunity may interest experienced administrative and clerical professionals who have completed secondary school education and have at least five years of relevant work experience. Unlike many international organisation vacancies that require a university degree, the stated minimum educational qualification for this position is completed secondary education. However, applicants must also demonstrate the required experience, communication ability and other competencies.
The vacancy is a temporary appointment for 364 days. Interested applicants must submit their applications through UNICEF’s official recruitment portal before the deadline of 5 November 2026 at 11:55 p.m. West Central Africa Time.
UNICEF Programme Assistant Recruitment 2026: Job Details
- Position: Programme Assistant (G-5)
- Organisation: United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)
- Job number: 596698
- Location: Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria
- Appointment type: Temporary Appointment
- Duration: 364 days
- Job category: Programme Management
- Minimum education: Completed secondary education
- Minimum experience: Five years of relevant administrative or clerical work experience
- Deadline: 5 November 2026, 11:55 p.m. WAT
About UNICEF
UNICEF is a United Nations agency working to protect children’s rights and improve their health, education, safety and general well-being. The organisation operates in countries and communities around the world, working with governments, civil society organisations, families and other partners.
In Nigeria, UNICEF works in a complex humanitarian and development environment. Its activities include supporting children’s rights, strengthening essential services and assisting communities affected by emergencies and other challenges.
The Maiduguri duty station is part of UNICEF’s operations in Borno State, where humanitarian and development programmes require coordination, administrative support and effective implementation. The Programme Assistant will help ensure that programme activities and related office processes are carried out efficiently and in accordance with organisational procedures.
Minimum Requirements for UNICEF Programme Assistant
Applicants must meet the minimum requirements stated in the official vacancy announcement. These include education, work experience, skills and language ability.
1. Educational Qualification
Applicants must have completed secondary school education. A university or technical qualification in a relevant discipline is listed as desirable, not as the minimum educational requirement.
UNICEF identifies fields such as Accountancy, Public Administration, Planning and Management, Public Management, Economics, Social Policy and International Relations, among other related disciplines, as useful additional qualifications.
2. Work Experience
A minimum of five years of relevant administrative or clerical work experience is required. Applicants should be able to demonstrate practical experience in office administration, programme support, record management, coordination or related duties.
Experience gained in humanitarian, development or field-based environments may be useful, particularly where it involves working with multiple teams and supporting programme implementation.
3. Required Skills
The successful candidate should demonstrate strong project management, collaboration and problem-solving skills. Confidence in using digital tools and the ability to adapt to new technologies are also required.
4. Language Requirement
Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of an official United Nations language such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish, or a local language, is an additional advantage.
Additional Qualifications and Experience That May Be an Advantage
Although the following are not listed as minimum requirements, UNICEF identifies several additional qualifications and experiences that may strengthen an application.
- A technical or university qualification in a relevant discipline.
- Experience in procurement and vendor management.
- Experience coordinating official travel and logistics.
- Experience in event management and administrative coordination.
- Knowledge management and communication experience.
- Familiarity with SAP and eZHACT systems.
- Data visualisation skills.
- Familiarity with artificial intelligence tools.
- Experience supporting emergency response activities.
- Previous experience with UNICEF or the wider United Nations system.
- Experience working in fragile, humanitarian or development settings.
Key Responsibilities of the Programme Assistant
The Programme Assistant will provide support across several operational and programme functions. The role requires organisation, attention to detail, the ability to work with colleagues and an understanding of administrative procedures.
1. Programme and Project Support
The successful candidate will assist with programme and project activities, helping teams coordinate tasks and support the implementation and monitoring of programme results.
2. Administrative and Financial Support
The position includes administrative and financial support duties. The assistant is expected to help ensure that relevant processes are completed accurately and in line with UNICEF rules and procedures.
3. Operations and Travel Coordination
The role involves supporting operational arrangements, including travel-related coordination and other logistics required for programme and office activities.
4. Event and Logistics Management
The Programme Assistant will assist with event coordination and administrative logistics. This may involve supporting meetings, activities and other programme-related arrangements.
5. Knowledge Management and Communication
The successful candidate will contribute to information management and communication activities, helping teams organise and share relevant programme information.
6. Emergency Support
UNICEF notes that staff may be called upon to support humanitarian action. Applicants should therefore be prepared for the flexibility required when working in a challenging humanitarian environment.
How to Apply for UNICEF Recruitment 2026
Interested candidates should apply online through the official UNICEF recruitment portal. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official UNICEF vacancy page using the application link below.
- Read the complete job description and minimum requirements.
- Confirm that you have completed secondary education and possess at least five years of relevant administrative or clerical experience.
- Prepare an accurate CV and the information required for the online application.
- Complete the application form through UNICEF’s recruitment system.
- Review your information carefully before submitting.
- Submit your application before the closing date.
Official application link: Apply for UNICEF Programme Assistant G-5 in Maiduguri.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is 5 November 2026 at 11:55 p.m. West Central Africa Time. Applicants should not wait until the final hours to submit their applications, as technical or internet problems may affect the submission process.
Important Notice to Applicants
UNICEF does not charge application, interview, selection or recruitment fees at any stage of its hiring process. The organisation also states that it will not ask applicants to provide bank account information as part of recruitment.
Applicants should use only the official UNICEF careers portal. Be cautious of individuals or websites claiming that they can secure employment, guarantee shortlisting or influence the recruitment process in exchange for money.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage. UNICEF may conduct reference, safeguarding and background checks, including verification of academic qualifications and employment history.
Conclusion
The UNICEF Programme Assistant G-5 vacancy in Maiduguri is an opportunity for experienced administrative and clerical professionals who meet the stated requirements. The minimum qualification is completed secondary education, but applicants must also have at least five years of relevant experience and demonstrate the required skills.
Qualified candidates should read the full vacancy announcement and submit their applications through UNICEF’s official careers portal before 5 November 2026. Ensure that your application accurately reflects your education, work history and professional abilities.
Thank you for this opportunity .I look forward to learning , gaining new skills, and contributing positively to my community .