Gates Foundation Senior Program Officer – Elite Agriculture Policy, Advocacy & Strategic Communications 2026 | Apply Now
The Gates Foundation is inviting qualified professionals to apply for the Senior Program Officer – Agriculture Policy, Advocacy & Strategic Communications position based in Abuja, Nigeria. This is an exciting opportunity for experienced policy and communications professionals to contribute to agricultural transformation, food security, climate resilience, and economic opportunity across Nigeria and Africa.
Working within the Foundation’s Global Policy & Advocacy (GPA) division, the successful candidate will lead strategic communications, policy advocacy, and partner engagement initiatives that influence agricultural development policies and strengthen locally led advocacy networks.
Job Summary
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | Gates Foundation |
| Position | Senior Program Officer – Agriculture Policy, Advocacy & Strategic Communications |
| Location | Abuja, Nigeria |
| Job Type | Full-Time |
| Department | Global Policy & Advocacy (GPA) |
| Division | Program Advocacy & Communications |
| Application Deadline | 7 July 2026 |
| Travel Requirement | Up to 30% Domestic & International |
About the Gates Foundation
The Gates Foundation is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting poverty, disease, and inequality. The Foundation partners with governments, nonprofits, research institutions, and the private sector to improve health, expand economic opportunity, and create sustainable development solutions worldwide.
The Global Policy & Advocacy Division works to shape public policy, strengthen partnerships, mobilize resources, and advance advocacy strategies that accelerate progress across global development priorities.
About the Position
The Senior Program Officer will lead advocacy communications and policy engagement initiatives supporting the Foundation’s Agricultural Development Strategy in Nigeria while contributing to regional advocacy efforts across Africa.
The role focuses on translating complex agricultural and economic policies into evidence-based advocacy strategies that influence policymakers, strengthen partner organizations, and promote sustainable agricultural transformation.
Key Responsibilities
Successful candidates will:
- Develop and implement agriculture policy advocacy strategies.
- Lead strategic communications and narrative development.
- Translate technical evidence into policy messages.
- Build partnerships with governments, NGOs, and development organizations.
- Manage advocacy grants and partner portfolios.
- Support policy reform and implementation efforts.
- Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders.
- Monitor misinformation and protect reform momentum.
- Prepare leadership briefings and strategic communications.
- Strengthen locally led advocacy ecosystems across Africa.
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Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should possess:
Education
A bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Policy, Agriculture, International Development, Political Science, Public Affairs, or a related discipline. An advanced degree is an added advantage.
Experience
- At least 7 years of experience in policy advocacy, strategic communications, public affairs, or issue-based advocacy.
- Experience working within agriculture, food systems, economic development, or international development.
- Experience managing advocacy grants and partnerships.
- Strong understanding of Nigeria’s policy and political environment.
Skills
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Excellent communication and writing skills.
- Strategic thinking and stakeholder engagement.
- Policy analysis and advocacy expertise.
- Grant management experience.
- Leadership and partnership-building skills.
- Ability to synthesize technical information into actionable messaging.
Benefits
Employees enjoy an outstanding benefits package including:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Foundation-funded retirement contributions.
- Generous paid annual leave.
- Paid family leave.
- Regional holidays.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Inclusive and diverse workplace.
- Employee resource groups and wellbeing programmes.
Why You Should Apply
This position offers the opportunity to influence agricultural policy and economic development at national and continental levels while working for one of the world’s leading philanthropic organizations. Professionals passionate about advocacy, policy reform, and sustainable development will find this a rewarding career opportunity.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for:
- Policy and Advocacy Specialists
- Strategic Communications Professionals
- Public Affairs Experts
- Agriculture Development Professionals
- International Development Specialists
- Government Relations Professionals
- NGO Programme Managers
- Communications and Advocacy Consultants
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Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Updated CV or Résumé
- Cover Letter
- Academic Certificates
- Professional Certifications (if applicable)
Application Deadline
Deadline: 7 July 2026
Applications submitted after the deadline may not be considered.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their application through the official Gates Foundation Careers Portal before the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is this position based?
Abuja, Nigeria.
Is this a full-time position?
Yes. It is a full-time position.
Does the Foundation provide visa sponsorship?
No. Applicants must already have legal authorization to work in Nigeria.
How much experience is required?
A minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience.
When is the application deadline?
7 July 2026.
Final Thoughts
The Gates Foundation Senior Program Officer – Agriculture Policy, Advocacy & Strategic Communications position is an exceptional opportunity for experienced advocacy and policy professionals seeking to drive agricultural transformation across Nigeria and Africa. If you have the required expertise and are passionate about creating lasting impact through policy, communications, and partnerships, submit your application before the deadline.
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