Lagel Practitional

Legal Practitioner

Summary

HOPE360 Aid, a dedicated non-profit organization focused on humanitarian relief and sustainable development, is seeking a qualified Legal Practitioner to join its Legal Affairs, Compliance, and Protection department. Based in Maiduguri, Borno State, this role is pivotal in safeguarding the organization's operations, ensuring adherence to Nigerian laws and humanitarian standards, and protecting the rights of vulnerable communities. The successful candidate will serve as a strategic advisor to the Executive Director and management, providing expert guidance on complex legal matters, contract governance, risk mitigation, and ethical compliance while fostering a culture of accountability and human rights.

Responsibilities

• Deliver comprehensive legal counsel to leadership and various departments regarding organizational policies and operational challenges.

• Analyze and interpret Nigerian statutes and regulations to ensure all humanitarian and development activities remain compliant.

• Act as an authorized representative for the organization in legal proceedings, administrative hearings, and external negotiations when qualified.

• Collaborate with outside legal experts, government regulators, and relevant institutions to manage external legal relationships.

• Identify potential legal vulnerabilities and propose strategic solutions to minimize organizational risk.

• Draft, scrutinize, and finalize a wide range of legal documents, including employment contracts, partnership agreements, memoranda of understanding, and service level agreements.

• Evaluate agreements with donors, partners, and vendors to ensure clear definitions of liabilities, confidentiality, dispute resolution, and termination clauses.

• Establish and maintain a secure, organized system for managing legal records and confidential documentation.

• Monitor adherence to laws governing non-governmental and non-profit entities, advising on statutory filings and regulatory updates.

• Assist the Board of Trustees in governance matters, including conflict of interest management and organizational accountability frameworks.

• Review internal procedures to detect legal gaps and recommend necessary policy updates.

• Facilitate internal investigations and disciplinary actions in line with legal standards and organizational bylaws.

• Offer expert guidance on protection issues, including gender-based violence, child safety, and disability inclusion within the program scope.

• Develop and promote appropriate referral mechanisms for survivors seeking legal aid while prioritizing their safety and confidentiality.

• Uphold principles of informed consent, non-discrimination, and dignity in all interactions with affected populations.

• Integrate legal perspectives into policies concerning sexual exploitation, abuse prevention, whistleblowing, and staff conduct.

• Ensure the lawful and discreet handling of sensitive complaints and case data.

• Guide management in executing due process during investigations and disciplinary hearings.

• Educate staff, volunteers, and partners on their legal and ethical responsibilities.

• Report critical legal and safeguarding risks through designated channels.

• Proactively identify dispute risks and facilitate alternative resolution methods such as mediation or negotiation.

• Manage conflicts related to employment, contracts, property, and partnerships.

• Maintain a legal risk register and advise on strategies to reduce exposure to fraud, corruption, or contractual breaches.

• Lead or coordinate training sessions on legal compliance, human rights, and professional ethics for the workforce.

• Develop practical guidance notes and compliance tools for program teams.

• Generate periodic reports on legal status, compliance actions, and significant regulatory changes for management review.

• Perform additional duties as assigned by leadership to support organizational goals.