State Helpdesk Officer – Ogun

ABOUT IITA

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is an international non-profit research-for-development organisation addressing hunger, malnutrition, poverty and natural-resource challenges. Its programmes support inclusive agricultural development, youth livelihoods and resilient food systems across Africa.

JOB SUMMARY

The State Helpdesk Officer will operate IITA's state-level programme helpdesk and provide accurate, respectful and timely assistance to applicants, participants, community members and partners. The officer will manage enquiries, referrals and complaints while supporting outreach, participant registration and programme reporting in Ogun State.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Operate the state helpdesk in person, by telephone and through approved communication channels.
• Respond promptly and courteously to enquiries from prospective and enrolled participants, community members and partners.
• Explain programme eligibility, application procedures, training schedules, Youth Agribusiness Park access and available support services.
• Receive, document and route questions, feedback and complaints, including safeguarding-sensitive concerns, through approved mechanisms.
• Support community outreach and sensitisation, particularly among young women, persons with disabilities and internally displaced youth.
• Maintain accurate, confidential and updated logs of enquiries, referrals, resolutions and recurring issues.
• Monitor relevant policy, regulatory and market developments affecting youth agribusiness and flag emerging issues.
• Support participant registration, attendance tracking, cohort enrolment, training sessions and Youth Agribusiness Park events.
• Coordinate with training, administration, logistics and state programme colleagues to ensure consistent information.
• Prepare periodic helpdesk reports covering enquiry trends, feedback and resolution status.
• Uphold safeguarding, confidentiality and code-of-conduct standards.
• Perform other related duties assigned by the supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in Social Sciences, Communications, Development Studies, Agriculture or a related field.
• Minimum of two years' experience in customer service, community engagement, front-desk operations or another public-facing role.
• Previous experience with an NGO or development programme is preferred.
• Fluency in English and relevant local language(s).
• Basic computer literacy and ability to use Microsoft Office and digital communication tools.

COMPETENCIES

• Excellent listening, interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of local communities and sensitivity to young women, persons with disabilities and displaced people.
• Patience, discretion and ability to handle sensitive or difficult conversations professionally.
• Strong organisation, record keeping, problem solving and conflict-resolution ability.
• Ability to manage several priorities and work effectively under pressure.
• High integrity, confidentiality and professional judgement.
• Willingness to travel locally, including to rural communities and Youth Agribusiness Parks.

EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS AND REMUNERATION

• Contract: Two-year renewable contract.
• Duty station: Ogun State, Nigeria.
• Work arrangement: On-site with local travel.
• Salary: Competitive remuneration with benefits; the exact amount is not stated.
• IITA is an equal-opportunity employer and particularly welcomes applications from women.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

HOW TO APPLY

Complete the official online application and attach a detailed cover letter and curriculum vitae saved in Microsoft Word format using your name.

Apply through the official IITA page:

https://apply.workable.com/iita/j/0A2C296AD8

Deadline: 21 September 2026.