Nature-based livelihoods Specialist

Reporting Lines

Under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative (FAOR) and direct supervision of the Assistant FAO Representative (Programmes) (AFAOR-P) and in close collaboration with other team members and relevant FAO technical officers in the Sub-regional office for West Africa (SFW), Regional FAO Office for Africa (RAF) and Headquarters, the incumbent will undertake the following main tasks.

Technical Focus 

The Nature-Based Livelihoods Specialist will play a crucial role in the UK PACT project focused on rehabilitating coastal ecosystems and enhancing the climate resilience of mangrove ecosystems, alongside their associated forest and fisheries communities. This specialist will lead initiatives to develop sustainable livelihoods rooted in nature-based practices and value chains, promoting community engagement, gender inclusion, and private sector partnerships.

Tasks and responsibilities

⢠Formulate and advocate for guidelines supporting mangrove-friendly aquaculture, sustainable small-scale fisheries, and co-management of mangrove ecosystems.
⢠Develop and implement sustainable income-generating fishery activities and value chains within and around mangrove ecosystems.
⢠Establish Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to create nature-based value chains that reduce pressure on mangrove ecosystems while generating benefits.
⢠Facilitate market linkages, access to resources, and value-chain financing through contract farming and partnerships.
⢠Develop opportunities for PPPs that strengthen agricultural, forestry, fisheries, and ecotourism value chains.
⢠Implement gender-sensitive interventions for integrated agricultural, forestry, and fishing practices.
⢠Train communities in sustainable income-generating fishery activities and value chains, focusing on women and youth participation.
⢠Conduct Train-the-Trainers workshops for state officials, NGOs/CBOs on technical and managerial aspects of nature-based livelihoods.
⢠Build community capacity for using the Integrated Mangrove Fish Farming System (IMFFS) to enhance resilience.
⢠Empower vulnerable community members in establishing community-based finance systems.
⢠Profile and assess vulnerability of households dependent on mangroves and fisheries.
⢠Collaborate with the Gender and Social Inclusion Specialist to implement GESI activities, including eliminating gender-based violence and child labour.
⢠Empower women through sensitization, training, and empowerment activities based on the Gender Action Plan.
⢠Provide capacity building and institutional strengthening to ensure maintenance of proposed income-generating activities.
⢠Develop bankable business plans for sustainable nature-based economic activities.
⢠Prepare project reports, documenting lessons learned and best practices.
⢠Collaborate with other project experts to share project impacts and successes.
⢠Perform other duties as required.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

⢠University degree or advanced university degree in relevant natural or social sciences (Fisheries and Aquaculture, Natural Resource Economics, Agroecology, Integrated Production Systems, Climate Change Adaptation).
⢠Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in developing climate-resilient mixed production systems, sustainable fisheries, pastoralism systems, and nature-based value chains.
⢠Working knowledge of English.
⢠Nigerian nationality.

FAO Core Competencies

⢠Results Focus
⢠Teamwork
⢠Communication
⢠Building Effective Relationships
⢠Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills 

⢠Work experience in diverse locations and areas.
⢠Familiarity with project management and development.
⢠Strong command of English and excellent communication skills.
⢠Excellent interpersonal skills and experience working with diverse stakeholders.
⢠Knowledge of economic and social development, agriculture, and social protection policies.
⢠Experience working with government counterparts, financial institutions, and private sector entities.
⢠Previous experience in community development and mobilization.
⢠Strong team-building and cross-cultural skills.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing) Incomplete applications will not be considered. If you need help please contact: Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed at For additional employment opportunities visit the FAO employment website:  Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.