Location: Abuja
Organization: Connected Development (CODE)
Salary: Competitive 

About Connected Development (CODE):

Connected Development (CODE) is Africa’s leading civil society organization. We empower marginalized communities through open data, participatory governance, and social accountability. We work to enhance public sector transparency and ensure service delivery through advocacy, capacity building, and citizen engagement.

Job Summary

The M&E Officer will be responsible for monitoring and ensuring high-quality and timely inputs, maintaining the project’s strategic vision, and ensuring that its activities result in the cost-effective and timely achievement of its intended outputs.

The M&E officer will be responsible for designing and implementing the M&E activities of Projects; assisting the Project Manager in preparing Quarterly/Annual reports on project progress and monitoring project activities regularly, and developing and will be responsible for the collection & analysis of different data about project activities.

The Monitoring and Evaluation Officer works in close collaboration with the project team  and reports to the Director of Programs

• Develop and strengthen monitoring, inspection, and evaluation procedures;
• Monitor all project activities, expenditures, and progress toward achieving project output;
• Develop new and recommend further improvement of logical frameworks of existing projects;
• Develop monitoring and impact indicators for project success;
• Monitor and evaluate overall progress on achievement of results;
• Monitor the sustainability of projects’ results;
• Provide feedback to the Project Manager on project strategies and activities;
• Suggest strategies to the Project Management for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the project by identifying bottlenecks in completing project activities and developing plans to minimize or eliminate such bottlenecks;
• Report monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, and annual progress on all project activities to the Programs Director/Project Manager;
• Conduct capacity assessment on existing monitoring and evaluation system, develop indicators and a monitoring strategy for the project;
• Provide inputs, information, and statistics for quarterly, annual, and other reports to the Project Management Team;
• Participate in annual project reviews and planning workshops and assist the Project Manager in preparing relevant reports;
• Support monitoring and evaluation of the effects and impact of the project;
• Assist in proposal writing for new grants;
• Assist the project personnel with M&E tools and in supporting them in their use;
• Perform other duties as required;

Functional Competencies:

• Organises and accurately completes multiple tasks by establishing priorities while taking into consideration special assignments, frequent interruptions, deadlines, available resources and multiple reporting relationships
• Plans, coordinates, and organizes workload while remaining aware of changing Priorities and competing deadlines
• Establishes, builds, and maintains effective working relationships with staff and clients to facilitate the provision of support

Knowledge Management and Learning

• In-depth knowledge of M&E and development issues
• Excellent knowledge of monitoring and the application of methodology: 
• Good understanding of capacity assessment methodologies; excellent ability to identify significant capacity-building opportunities;
• Excellent communication skills (written and oral): 
• Sensitivity to and responsiveness to all partners, respectful and helpful relations with donors and project staff.
• Ability to lead the implementation of new systems (business side), and affect staff behavioral/ attitudinal change

Required Skills and Experience Education:

• University Degree preferably in Business Administration, Economics, Social Sciences, or a related field.
• Certification showing completed training in M&E

Experience:

• At least 5 years of experience in the design and implementation of M&E in development projects implemented by national/international NGOs/Governments;
• Experience in designing tools and strategies for data collection, analysis, and production of reports;
• Proven ICT skills, especially in the development of MIS software using database software;
• Expertise in analyzing data using statistical software;
• Strong training & facilitation skills.

Why Join CODE?

• Be part of a mission-driven organization that values transparency, accountability, and impact.
• Lead strategic initiatives that drive financial sustainability and organizational growth.
• Opportunity for professional growth and influence in the development sector.

Click here to apply

This policy brief is based on the work of Connected Development (CODE) concerning climate justice and interactions with different communities, including religious groups, government, and civil society organizations (CSOs) engaged in climate action in Nigeria. It comprehensively analyzes an approach to effective communication in climate messaging and how the pertinent issues here are often associated with faith. Accordingly, the brief sets forth a new approach towards climate communication and messaging within the context of religion to enable greater effectiveness and outreach, as well as to improve vulnerable groups’ understanding of climate science and its attendant effect on their everyday lives. Read full report below👇

The Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change project was initiated by Connected Development [CODE] to foster collaboration among diverse faith communities in Nigeria towards addressing the increased issues around climate change. The project was necessitated due to the increasing need to improve local-led strategies for practical climate challenges and science and action communication among Nigeria’s teeming population. The project also aimed to leverage the influence of faith-based institutions/ leadership to promote environmental stewardship for sustainable practices while galvanizing mass climate action using the influence of people’s commitment to faith…Read full report below 👇

One of the most daunting challenges in neglected communities around the world is the accountable delivery of public goods and services. This situation is even more dire in rural areas because communities that are more visible and networked often receive goods and services that less accessible communities don’t. However, the funds earmarked for these communities still need to go somewhere. Instead of reaching their intended recipients, funds allocated to rural communities are routed elsewhere, often toward the personal interests of government officials or other non-essential expenditures that do not respond to the primary needs of communities.

Download full report here: B. [CODE] Global Case Study

Download full report here: B1. [CODE] ABRIDGED Global Case Study

A Nigerian youth-led organization called Connected Development (CODE) is catalyzing one of the largest social movements in Africa, “Follow The Money” (FTM), which transforms corruption into opportunities for neglected communities by empowering them to demand accountability in the delivery of government goods and services earmarked for their communities. This case study illustrates how the MacArthur Foundation’s investment of USD 350,000 has contributed to FTM’s investigative monitoring and, ultimately, the delivery of USD 1.5 million (570 million Naira) in education infrastructure across Kaduna State alone. Download the full report below.

Download A. [CODE] FTM Kaduna Case Study Here

Download A1. [CODE] FTM Kaduna ABRIDGED Case Study Here

Education is a fundamental pillar for national development, yet Northern Nigeria continues to face severe educational challenges that hinder progress and exacerbate socio-economic disparities. This paper examines key barriers to education in the region, including limited access due to inadequate infrastructure, insecurity, and socio-cultural constraints. It also highlights issues of equity, gender disparity, and the impact of the Almajiri system on school attendance. Additionally, the study explores the declining quality of education caused by teacher shortages, outdated curricula, and poor learning conditions. The lack of technology integration and limited vocational training opportunities further hinder students’ preparedness for the modern workforce. See full report below 👇 ⬇️

February 6 marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), a day dedicated to amplifying voices, challenging harmful practices, and advocating for the protection of girls worldwide. This year’s theme, Her Voice, Her Future, resonates deeply with me, as it reminds us of the urgency to listen, act, and protect the rights of girls and women everywhere.

Female Genital Mutilation refers to all procedures that involve the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. Despite global efforts, FGM continues to affect millions of girls worldwide, driven by deep-rooted cultural and societal beliefs.

Looking back, my journey in advocating against FGM started in 2005 when I participated in my high school drama, highlighting the disheartening reality of this practice. Even then, as a young girl, I was struck by the pain and injustice inflicted upon so many. Yet, nearly two decades later, we are still riddled with these harmful practices. The statistics are staggering—more than 230 million girls and women alive today have undergone some form of FGM, and millions more remain at risk each year. (UNICEF, 2024). With an estimated 19.9 million survivors, Nigeria accounts for the third-highest number of women and girls who have undergone FGM worldwide. (UNICEF, 2022).  The World Health Organization estimates that treatment of the health complications of FGM is estimated to cost health systems US$ 1.4 billion per year; this clearly shows that there are no health benefits to this practice, only harm.

FGM is not merely a cultural practice; it is a human rights violation with devastating consequences. It is unscientific, uncivilized, utterly callous and barbaric. Girls who undergo this procedure suffer long-term physical, emotional, and psychological trauma. The risks include severe bleeding, infections, complications in childbirth, and even death. Beyond the physical harm, it robs them of autonomy over their bodies and their futures.

In many rural communities, FGM is upheld by deeply ingrained traditions and societal norms. As  I  reflect on the effectiveness of advocacy against FGM in the regions of south-east and south-west where it is prevalent, I’m left to ask, are we genuinely reaching the most vulnerable? Are policies and interventions translating into real change?

The government and organizations have taken steps to combat FGM, yet implementation gaps remain. Laws exist, but enforcement is weak. Awareness campaigns are launched, but cultural resistance persists. For real change to happen, we must move beyond policies on paper and focus on grassroots engagement.

The fight against FGM is not just for activists or policymakers but for all of us. We must empower survivors, amplify their voices, and challenge societal norms that perpetuate this violence. It is time to stand with the millions of girls at risk and ensure that their voices shape a future free from harm.

Her voice matters. Her future is worth fighting for.

Together, we can end FGM—once and for all.

This report is conducted by Connected Development (CODE) in partnership with INKA Consult from Denmark. It provides an overview of international climate finance for Nigeria from 2015 to 2021. The study also looks at the climate finance management system and evaluates the participation of citizens and civil society in climate finance planning and monitoring in Nigeria… Click the links below to download full reports

The State of Climate Finance in Nigeria

Executive Summary State of Climate Finance in Nigeria

Fact Sheet State of Climate Finance in Nigeria

By Ruth Okafor

Each year, the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence serves as a distressing reminder of the ongoing struggle to eradicate violence against women and other vulnerable groups worldwide. Reflecting on this initiative, it is clear that our commitment must extend beyond these 16 days. While efforts in awareness, policy formulation, and implementation have advanced, the gruesome stories of violence remind us of the work still needed. These cases emphasize the urgency for action and concrete steps to address gender-based violence (GBV) globally.

That said, I must reiterate that the global observance of the 16 Days of Activism is not just a ceremonial marking on the calendar; it represents an essential effort to intensify awareness and generate momentum for ending the scourge of gender-based violence. This period is a call to elevate the voices of survivors and galvanize actionable change that resonates beyond these days. However, to bring about substantial and lasting change, activism must transcend these symbolic observances and become a constant pursuit of justice and equality.

Notably, this year alone has seen heartbreaking stories from around the globe that reiterate the need for a constant reminder of the societal menace of gender-based violence. 

For instance, there was a case involving a 17-year-old girl who was detained for allegedly receiving stolen property and was subsequently raped by a law enforcement officer in Edo State, Nigeria. Imagine an enforcer of the law forcing himself on a 17-year-old girl.

Additionally, we mourned the tragic loss of Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei, who was killed by her partner, reminding us of the deadly consequences of intimate partner violence.

Another saddening case is that of Gisela Pericot, who was raped and drugged multiple times by her husband and other men. Gisela’s public declaration against victim shaming marks a pivotal moment in the fight against gender-based violence, emphasizing the need to shift the narrative of shame toward perpetrators rather than survivors.

These are only a few reported cases; many others go unreported due to stigma and lack of trust in the justice system. This highlights the urgent need for systemic change. Furthermore, cultural norms can silence survivors, preventing them from seeking help or justice. Overcoming these barriers is essential to empower victims to speak out. This underscores the necessity for greater awareness and concrete actions by stakeholders. They must make commitments that translate into sustainable policies and actions. 

How can we sustain momentum beyond these 16 Days?

1. Accountability and Follow-Up: Every year, numerous commitments are made by various stakeholders, especially government and community leaders. We must ask clear-cut questions to track progress and accountability to ensure they uphold these commitments made during activism events. Specific, timely reminders and monitoring systems should be prioritized to keep commitments in focus. This could involve civic organizations and active citizens demanding accountability through quarterly evaluations of policy implementations or changes.
2. Promote Local Engagement: As a believer in local solutions to solve global challenges, fostering community-driven initiatives that address cultural and contextual aspects of gender-based violence will further dismantle existing harmful beliefs. Strengthening local government involvement is crucial for sustaining dialogue and preventive measures at the grassroots level. Engaging Religious and Traditional leaders to take charge in addressing these issues will facilitate a bottom-up approach to societal change, significantly aiding in eliminating various forms of violence in our society.
3. Support Victim-Centric Solutions: Creating safe spaces where survivors are heard, believed, and supported without being judged. Amplifying their voices and prioritizing their needs in policy discussions is essential. Encouraging media narratives that highlight stories of resilience while demanding justice for survivors—rather than perpetuating shame—is crucial.

To effectively combat GBV, we must move beyond campaigns and slogans to implement year-round, actionable strategies that address the SYSTEMIC causes of GBV. Which include community education and awareness; technology for safety, and breaking the cycle of silence. Not forgetting that in addressing GBV strict accountability for perpetrators is required which must include; 

• Swift Justice for survivors
• ⁠Rehabilitation Programs for 
• Public Registers for perpetrators
• Zero Tolerance in Institutions

Finally, we must always remember that GBV is not insurmountable; it requires collective will and continuous action from everyone to overcome it. Beyond the 16 Days of Activism, we must commit to a future where safety, dignity, and justice for all are non-negotiable. Every voice matters in shaping this change—your voice can be the difference. Stand with survivors! Let us move from commitments to actionable plans as a society.

Nigeria continues to contend with challenges of accountability, resource allocation, and service delivery, despite significant investments in education, health, and social sectors. These sectors are crucial for sustainable development, yet they suffer from inefficiencies, corruption, and a lack of transparency. According to UNICEF, over 10.5 million children are out of school in Nigeria, representing one of the highest rates in the world. Even with increased budget allocations, Nigeria’s education sector faces significant challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, low teacher quality, and high school dropout rates.

The healthcare system in Nigeria is plagued by issues such as poor funding, a shortage of medical personnel, brain drain, poor staff funding and inadequate facilities. The World Bank reports that Nigeria has one of the highest maternal mortality rates globally, with 814 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2020. Social programs aimed at reducing poverty and inequality often suffer from mismanagement and lack of accountability. For instance, the NSEG report (2019) shows that the National Social Investment Program (NSIP) has faced criticism for inefficiencies and corruption, which undermine its effectiveness in alleviating poverty.