Job Overview

ICRC is hiring a Legal Adviser 1 in Abuja to support international humanitarian law, legal research, national implementation and engagement with Nigerian authorities.

Legal Adviser 1 at ICRC – Abuja

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is recruiting a Legal Adviser 1 in Abuja to support work related to international humanitarian law (IHL) and its implementation in Nigeria. The position combines legal research and analysis with engagement involving government authorities, academic institutions and other stakeholders.

For a lawyer interested in humanitarian work, the role offers exposure to IHL, international human rights law and national legal and policy frameworks. It also involves supporting academic engagement and activities that promote understanding of humanitarian law across Nigeria.

Position at a glance

What the role involves

The Legal Adviser will provide legal analysis and advice to the ICRC’s Abuja Delegation, with particular attention to the national implementation of international humanitarian law in Nigeria.

The position also involves maintaining relationships with Nigerian authorities, academic institutions and other relevant contacts. The successful candidate will contribute to strategies concerning treaty participation, domestic legal frameworks and broader engagement on IHL.

A significant part of the work will involve research, monitoring legal developments and helping translate legal analysis into practical advice and programme activities.

Main responsibilities

The Legal Adviser will:

• Analyse national legal developments relating to IHL, international human rights law and other relevant legal frameworks.
• Monitor developments concerning the domestic implementation of IHL and applicable human rights standards.
• Develop and follow up on objectives, strategies and action plans addressing identified legal issues.
• Represent the ICRC Delegation in relevant meetings with external partners and contacts.
• Establish and maintain professional relationships with Nigerian government institutions, including the Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• Support strategies relating to IHL treaty participation and the development of domestic legal and policy frameworks.
• Provide legal advice and technical support to national authorities.
• Maintain relationships with academic institutions and support the teaching of IHL at key universities.
• Organize lectures, workshops and other activities for IHL teachers and students.
• Support Nigerian IHL teachers and researchers in gaining international exposure.
• Maintain working relationships with the Nigerian Red Cross Society.
• Support IHL dissemination activities aimed at specialized audiences.
• Coordinate relevant information with colleagues and other legal advisers within the ICRC.

Who is likely to fit this position?

The vacancy requires a university degree in Law. A master’s degree in public international law, international humanitarian law or human rights law would be an advantage.

The ICRC also considers knowledge of areas such as international humanitarian law, international human rights law, international criminal law, international refugee law, disarmament law or treaty law useful for the position.

Around three years of professional experience after graduation is recommended. Internship or traineeship experience may also be useful.

Applicants should also have:

• Excellent command of English.
• Good computer skills.
• A strong interest in humanitarian work.
• The ability to work effectively under pressure.
• A valid working permit to work in Nigeria.

Legal knowledge that can strengthen an application

This is not a general corporate legal position. Applicants should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the legal frameworks relevant to humanitarian operations.

Experience or academic exposure to international humanitarian law, international human rights law, public international law, international criminal law or refugee law can therefore help an applicant show a closer match to the position.

Practical experience involving legal research, policy analysis, government institutions, universities, humanitarian organizations or international organizations can also be relevant.

Working relationships

The role works internally with the Abuja Delegation and, where relevant, with regional and operational legal colleagues.

Externally, the Legal Adviser may engage with government institutions, lawyers, bar associations, the judiciary, parliament, international organizations, UN agencies, NGOs and academic institutions.

The position therefore requires more than strong legal research skills. Clear communication, relationship management and the ability to explain complex legal issues to different audiences are important parts of the work.

About the ICRC

The International Committee of the Red Cross is a neutral, impartial and independent humanitarian organization working to protect and assist people affected by armed conflict and other violence. Its work in Nigeria includes humanitarian assistance, protection activities and promoting respect for international humanitarian law.

The ICRC says its work is guided by values including impact, compassion, respect and collaboration.

Why this position may suit legal professionals

The role combines legal practice with humanitarian policy and international law. Rather than focusing solely on routine legal administration, the successful candidate will work on issues involving national legislation, treaty implementation, government engagement and academic development in IHL.

It could therefore be particularly relevant to lawyers who want to build experience at the intersection of law, humanitarian affairs and public policy.

Application advice

Applicants should make their CV clearly demonstrate the legal experience and academic background that match this particular position. The ICRC advises candidates to tailor their CV and cover letter to the role and explain clearly why they want to work with the organization.

Your cover letter is also an opportunity to explain your interest in humanitarian law and show how your legal background connects with the ICRC’s work. Our guide on How to Write a Winning Cover Letter for Jobs in Nigeria provides practical tips for writing a targeted cover letter rather than simply repeating your CV.

Its recruitment process may include screening, language assessment, interviews and a technical interview or test, depending on the position.

For specialist legal and international development positions, your CV should clearly connect your legal qualifications with relevant experience in research, policy analysis, humanitarian affairs and stakeholder engagement. See How to Write a Professional CV in Nigeria for practical guidance on structuring your qualifications, professional experience and achievements.

For this vacancy, give particular attention to:

• Your law degree and any relevant postgraduate qualification.
• Professional legal experience since graduation.
• IHL or public international law experience.
• Legal research and analytical work.
• Experience working with government, academic or humanitarian stakeholders.
• Written and spoken English proficiency.
• Any relevant work involving international organizations or NGOs.

How to apply

Interested and qualified candidates should apply through the ICRC – International Committee of the Red Cross on careers.icrc.org and follow the instructions provided for the vacancy.