State Helpdesk Officer – FCT

ABOUT IITA

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is a research-for-development organisation working to improve food and nutrition security, livelihoods and resilience through agricultural innovation. IITA seeks suitable Nigerian nationals for this state-level position.

JOB SUMMARY

The State Helpdesk Officer will operate the programme help desk in the Federal Capital Territory, giving prospective and enrolled participants, community members and partners timely and accurate information. The officer will maintain enquiry and referral records, support outreach and help ensure feedback—including safeguarding-sensitive concerns—is handled through the correct channels. This is an on-site, two-year renewable contract.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Operate the state help desk in person, by telephone and through other approved channels.
• Respond promptly and courteously to enquiries from prospective participants, enrolled participants, community members and partners.
• Explain programme eligibility, application procedures, training schedules and Youth Agribusiness Park access.
• Provide accurate information on available support, including finance linkages, starter kits and mentorship.
• Receive, log and route questions, feedback and complaints to the appropriate focal point.
• Handle safeguarding-sensitive concerns in line with the programme’s complaints, feedback and safeguarding procedures.
• Support community sensitisation and outreach, particularly to young women, persons with disabilities and internally displaced youth.
• Maintain an accurate database of enquiries, referrals, actions and resolutions.
• Monitor relevant local policy, regulatory and market developments affecting youth agribusiness and flag emerging issues.
• Support registration, attendance tracking, training sessions, cohort enrolment and Youth Agribusiness Park events.
• Coordinate with the State Training Officer, State Admin and Logistics Officer and other team members.
• Prepare periodic summaries on helpdesk activity, common enquiry themes and feedback trends.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with IITA’s safeguarding and code-of-conduct standards.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Social Sciences, Communications, Development Studies, Agriculture or a related field.
• At least two years of experience in customer service, community engagement, front-desk operations or a similar public-facing role, preferably in an NGO or development programme.
• Fluency in English and the relevant local language or languages.
• Good knowledge of the local community, culture and operating context.
• Sensitivity to the needs of young women, persons with disabilities and displaced people.
• Basic computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and digital communication tools.
• Strong listening, verbal and written communication skills.
• Good organisation, record-keeping, problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and work under pressure.
• High integrity, discretion, professionalism and willingness to travel locally.

REMUNERATION AND INCLUSION

IITA states that it offers a highly competitive salary, attractive benefits and good working conditions; no amount is specified. IITA is an equal-opportunity employer and particularly welcomes applications from women.

HOW TO APPLY

• Apply through the official IITA/Workable page using the application link provided.
• Attach a detailed cover letter and curriculum vitae saved with your name in Microsoft Word format.
• Submit no later than 21 September 2026.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.