Applications open for the UNODC Nigeria Youth Peace Champions Program

May 9, 2024 oppor4u 0 Comments

Applications are currently being accepted for the 2024 UNODC Nigeria Youth Peace Champions Program. For more than ten years, the States of Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe in Nigeria have faced significant challenges related to serious crimes against children in insecure environments. Children in these regions have been specifically targeted and recruited by various groups, forced to participate in violent activities, and subjected to exploitation.

In 2024, in response to these concerning trends, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is launching the “Protecting Children From Violence in Contexts of Insecurity, North-East Nigeria” project. This initiative aims to strengthen child protection measures and accountability mechanisms in the affected areas.

The project seeks to enhance the resilience of children and communities in selected local government areas (LGAs) in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States to support reconciliation efforts. It will focus on preventing the recruitment of vulnerable children, reducing the stigma associated with reintegrated children, and promoting peace through various activities.

Sixteen Youth Peace Champions will be chosen to collaborate with community leaders and civil society organizations at the grassroots level, with eight in Adamawa and eight in Yobe State. They will assist in spreading key messages, resolving conflicts, identifying emerging issues, and promoting peace through media channels.

Ten of these Youth Peace Champions will be selected through an online application process.

A further six individuals will be chosen directly from targeted communities to ensure the inclusion and involvement of young people at the grassroots level.

Eligibility Requirements: UNODC Nigeria Youth Peace Champions Program

1. You must be between the ages of 18 and 29 at the time of application.
2. You must be a resident of Damaturu, Potiskum, Fufore, or Yola Local Government Areas in Yobe and Adamawa States.
3. You should be able to speak and understand Kanuri or Hausa.
4. Fluency in English is advantageous.
5. You must be willing to commit from May 2024 to June 2025.

Benefits: UNODC Nigeria Youth Peace Champions Program

1. You will have the opportunity to serve as a positive role model and advocate for peace in your community.
2. You will make a valuable contribution to the discussion on preventing and responding to terrorism and extremism affecting children.
3. You will have the chance to network with key stakeholders who are driving peace and reconciliation in Adamawa and Yobe States, as well as beyond.
4. You will benefit from the knowledge and expertise of the UNODC ENDVAC team.
5. You will receive branded souvenirs.
6. Upon successful completion of the program, you will be issued a certificate of participation.

Please note that these positions are unpaid, and Youth Peace Champions will not be considered as United Nations staff or personnel.

Application Process: UNODC Nigeria Youth Peace Champions Program

If you meet all the eligibility criteria, do not miss the opportunity to fill out the application form by 23:59, 17 May 2024 (Nigeria time): [Application Form Link]

All successful applicants will be contacted by the end of April and provided with specific details about the project activity timeline and a proposal for their participation.