Consultant for Development of Strategic Action Plan for Mental Health in Nigeria

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is an intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to include 173 member states and offices in over 100 countries. The organization aims to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, focusing on the well-being of migrants and their communities. IOM's mission includes addressing the challenges of migration, enhancing the understanding of migration issues, and providing support to governments in managing migration effectively. The organization is committed to upholding the rights of migrants and ensuring their safety and dignity throughout the migration process.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a pivotal role in addressing the significant treatment gap in Nigeria's mental health system, where only about 10% of individuals with mental, neurological, and substance use disorders receive appropriate care. The consultant's primary responsibility will be to develop a comprehensive, evidence-based, zero draft of a costed Strategic Action Plan for Mental Health in Nigeria for the period 2025-203

• This plan is crucial for implementing the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) and aligning with the Mental Health Act (2021) and the National Mental Health Policy (2023). The consultant will conduct a thorough desk review of existing mental health policies and perform a situational analysis to identify key priority areas and interventions. The ultimate goal is to create a robust, budgeted mental health plan that enhances Nigeria's ability to support vulnerable populations, including returnees and victims of trafficking, while integrating psychosocial well-being into migration policies and service delivery.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key tasks: conducting a desk review of existing mental health policies, legislation, and global best practices; performing a situational analysis to assess service availability, workforce capacity, and funding levels; identifying priority areas and interventions for mental health and psychosocial support; developing a results framework with clear goals and objectives; estimating cost implications of proposed interventions; producing a zero draft of the Strategic Action Plan aligned with national health sector strategies; and facilitating a stakeholder review of the draft plan. The consultant will also be responsible for delivering reports and ensuring that all deliverables meet the expectations of the National Mental Health Programme.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in Public Health, Health Policy, Health Economics, Mental Health, or related fields. They should have at least 10 years of experience in health systems strengthening, policy development, and strategic planning. Demonstrated expertise in costing and developing national strategic plans in health or related sectors is essential. Candidates must also have proven experience working with government, development partners, and multi-sectoral stakeholders, along with strong analytical, facilitation, and report-writing skills.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in relevant fields such as Public Health, Health Policy, Health Economics, or Mental Health is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of health systems and the development of effective policies and strategic plans.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in health systems strengthening, policy development, and strategic planning. Candidates should have a proven track record of working on similar projects, particularly in the context of mental health or public health initiatives. Experience in costing and developing national strategic plans is also essential, as well as familiarity with working alongside government entities and various stakeholders in the health sector.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within IOM. Knowledge of additional languages such as French or Spanish is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application. Language proficiency will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to commence on February 2, 2026, and conclude by April 3, 202

• The consultant will be required to submit an inception report, a desk review and situation analysis report, and a zero draft of the Strategic Action Plan, among other deliverables. Payment will be made in installments based on the submission and approval of these deliverables. The consultant will be responsible for their own medical insurance for non-occupational accidents or illnesses and must provide proof of coverage before starting work. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.