Top 10 NGOs in Nigeria to work with

Introduction

Top 10 NGOs in Nigeria to work with; Nigeria is home to hundreds of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) working across various sectors, including education, healthcare, human rights, environmental protection, and humanitarian relief. For professionals seeking purpose-driven work, these organizations not only offer the chance to make a real difference but also provide competitive salaries, career development, and international exposure.

In 2025, the demand for skilled professionals in the NGO sector remains high, for instance, in roles like project management, health programs, advocacy, research, and field coordination. However, with plenty of organizations operating in the country, knowing which ones offer the best work environment, benefits, and impact can be challenging.

This guide presents the Top 10 NGOs in Nigeria to work with, based on reputation, employee satisfaction, career growth opportunities, and compensation packages. You’ll also learn about the kinds of roles available, the qualifications required, and tips for securing a position.

Why Work With an NGO in Nigeria?

While many people associate NGOs with volunteerism, the reality is that reputable NGOs offer professional roles with structured career paths. Here’s why working with an NGO can be a great career move:

1. Impactful Work

You contribute directly to solving social, economic, and environmental problems.

2. Career Growth

Many NGOs organise training programs, leadership development, and opportunities to work on international projects.

3. Competitive Salaries

Top NGOs in Nigeria often match or exceed salaries offered in the corporate sector, especially for technical and managerial roles.

4. Networking and International Exposure

You work alongside professionals from different countries, cultures, and disciplines, gaining global perspectives.

Methodology for Selection

The NGOs in this list were chosen based on:

• Reputation and credibility in Nigeria and internationally
• Staff welfare and benefits
• Opportunities for professional development
• Transparency and compliance with local and international standards
• Diversity and inclusion policies

Top 10 NGOs in Nigeria to Work With in 2025

1. United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)

Sector: Child protection, education, health, nutrition
Headquarters in Nigeria: Abuja, with field offices nationwide

UNICEF is one of the most respected NGOs globally and in Nigeria. The organization focuses on improving the lives of children and women through health, education, water, sanitation, and protection programs.

Why Work Here:

• Competitive, tax-free salaries for international staff and strong compensation packages for local staff
• Opportunities for global transfers
• Inclusive and diverse work environment

Common Roles:

• Education Specialist
• Child Protection Officer
• Health Officer
• Communications Specialist

Average Salary Range: ₦8 million – ₦25 million annually

2. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) – Doctors Without Borders

Sector: Emergency healthcare and humanitarian relief
Nigeria Offices: Abuja, Maiduguri, Kano, and other field locations

MSF provides medical care in conflict zones and during disease outbreaks. In Nigeria, they have been at the forefront of responses to cholera, measles, and Lassa fever outbreaks.

Why Work Here:

• High allowances for field staff working in high-risk areas
• Extensive training in medical and humanitarian response
• Opportunities to work internationally

Common Roles:

• Medical Doctor/Nurse
• Project Coordinator
• Logistics Manager
• Laboratory Scientist

Average Salary Range: ₦10 million – ₦22 million annually

3. Save the Children Nigeria

Sector: Child welfare, education, and protection
Nigeria Headquarters: Abuja, with multiple field offices

Save the Children focuses on programs that protect and educate children, especially in underserved and conflict-affected areas.

Why Work Here:

• Strong career development programs
• Competitive salary and health benefits
• Opportunities to lead innovative education and protection projects

Common Roles:

• Program Manager
• Advocacy Officer
• Nutrition Officer
• Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist

Average Salary Range: ₦7 million – ₦20 million annually

4. International Rescue Committee (IRC)

Sector: Humanitarian relief, economic recovery, education, and health
Nigeria Offices: Maiduguri, Yobe, Adamawa, and Abuja

IRC supports communities affected by conflict and disaster. In Nigeria, they focus heavily on the Northeast region, providing health care, protection services, and livelihood support.

Why Work Here:

• Field allowances for staff in high-risk zones
• Supportive work environment with emphasis on staff welfare
• Access to international roles within IRC globally

Common Roles:

• Livelihoods Officer
• Health Program Manager
• Protection Specialist
• Grants and Compliance Officer

Average Salary Range: ₦8 million – ₦18 million annually

5. Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC)

Sector: Refugee protection, shelter, education, and food security
Nigeria Operations: Focused on the Northeast and Abuja

The NRC assists displaced persons and refugees, providing them with shelter, education, and livelihood support.

Why Work Here:

• Competitive salaries and international standards of operation
• Strong focus on employee safety in volatile regions
• Opportunities for career growth

Common Roles:

• Shelter Coordinator
• Education Officer
• Logistics Officer
• Protection Specialist

Average Salary Range: ₦7 million – ₦16 million annually

6. World Health Organization (WHO)

Sector: Public health, disease prevention, and policy support
Nigeria Office: Abuja and state-level presence

WHO supports Nigeria’s health systems, particularly in immunization, disease surveillance, and outbreak response.

Why Work Here:

• International salary packages for expatriates and competitive rates for national staff
• Opportunities to influence national and global health policy
• Access to advanced public health training

Common Roles:

• Public Health Officer
• Surveillance Officer
• Health Data Analyst
• Immunization Specialist

Average Salary Range: ₦9 million – ₦24 million annually

7. Plan International Nigeria

Sector: Child rights, education, gender equality
Headquarters: Abuja

Plan International works to advance children’s rights and equality for girls. Their projects cover education, skills training, and advocacy against child marriage.

Why Work Here:

• Strong focus on gender equity in staffing and leadership
• Staff benefits include health insurance and pension contributions
• Opportunities for international assignments

Common Roles:

• Program Coordinator
• Gender Specialist
• Education Advisor
• Advocacy Officer

Average Salary Range: ₦6 million – ₦15 million annually

8. ActionAid Nigeria

Sector: Poverty eradication, governance, women’s rights
Headquarters: Abuja

ActionAid Nigeria addresses poverty and injustice through advocacy, education, and humanitarian support.

Why Work Here:

• Transparent salary structures and strong internal policies
• Emphasis on advocacy and policy influence
• Opportunities to work on grassroots community programs

Common Roles:

• Program Officer
• Policy Analyst
• Communications Manager
• Monitoring and Evaluation Officer

Average Salary Range: ₦6 million – ₦14 million annually

9. Oxfam in Nigeria

Sector: Economic justice, gender justice, humanitarian response
Headquarters: Abuja, with field offices in the North

Oxfam addresses inequality through economic empowerment and humanitarian projects.

Why Work Here:

• Competitive pay and family-friendly policies
• Opportunities to contribute to high-impact poverty reduction programs
• Employee support during emergency deployments

Common Roles:

• Livelihoods Officer
• Humanitarian Coordinator
• Finance Officer
• Advocacy Manager

Average Salary Range: ₦7 million – ₦16 million annually

10. FHI 360 Nigeria

Sector: Public health, education, research, and social development
Nigeria Office: Abuja and state-level operations

FHI 360 is a global NGO focused on health, education, and workforce development. In Nigeria, they are deeply involved in HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment programs.

Why Work Here:

• Strong career development and technical training programs
• Attractive salary and benefits
• Collaboration with international health experts

Common Roles:

• Program Officer
• Technical Advisor (HIV/AIDS)
• Laboratory Scientist
• Grants Officer

Average Salary Range: ₦8 million – ₦20 million annually

How to Get Hired by Top NGOs in Nigeria

1. Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter

Highlight relevant skills, measurable achievements, and NGO-specific experience.

2. Build Relevant Skills

Consider certifications in project management (PMP), humanitarian response, monitoring and evaluation, or health systems.

3. Network Strategically

Engage with NGO professionals on LinkedIn and attend industry events or webinars.

4. Use Trusted Job Platforms

Websites such as ReliefWeb, Devex, MyJobMag, and official NGO websites list current openings.

Conclusion

The Top 10 NGOs in Nigeria to work with offer more than just jobs; they provide opportunities that create meaningful change while building a rewarding career and From humanitarian relief with MSF to health system strengthening with WHO and children’s rights advocacy with UNICEF, each organization offers a unique mission and culture to our nation.

If you want to combine professional growth with a sense of purpose, the Nigerian NGOs work sector has given us opportunities. The key is preparation and acquiring relevant skills, understanding each organization’s mission, and positioning yourself as the right candidate to get an NGO’s job in Nigeria.

Related content: UN and WHO jobs in Nigeria 2025

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