# Program Operations and Administrative Assistant

> International Institute of Tropical Agriculture(IITA) · Abuja, Nigeria · Contract · Posted 2026-07-14

**Workplace:** on_site

**Department:** NRS

## Description

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture seeks suitable Nigerian nationals for the position below at the Institute’s Station in Abuja.

**Position:  Program Operations and Administrative Assistant**

**Contract:**       1-year renewable contract                                               **Location: Abuja**

**DUTIES:** 

-   Plan, organize, and coordinate Yam Breeding program meetings, including monthly meetings, team-building sessions, and weekly updates.
-   Manage logistics for internal and external meetings, including trainings and workshops across implementing states.
-   Prepare agendas, meeting minutes, presentations, and reports for program and project meetings.
-   Support routine administrative activities, including contract renewals, procurement, reimbursement claims, and purchase requisitions.
-   Manage travel logistics for program and project staff. Lead and supervise sensory evaluation sessions.
-   Assist the program leader in planning scheduling, and responding to operational issues, tracking milestone including monitoring project timelines, tracking research deliverables and reporting deadlines with partners.
-   Participate in harvesting trials and ensure proper handling of samples.
-   Assist in post-harvest evaluations including dry matter content, oxidation level, and tuber quality.
-   Ensure timely data capture, accurate formatting, and submission to the supervisor.
-   Develop and maintain databases for easy information retrieval and improved project efficiency.
-   Support preparation of technical reports and summaries for internal use.
-   Manage procurement processes for program materials and office supplies.
-   Conduct routine inventory checks, ensuring proper usage and accountability of project equipment.
-   Ensure harvested tubers are stored under optimal conditions, maintain cleanliness of barns, and work areas.
-   Supervise short-term to ensure timely completion of assigned tasks.
-   Assist in staff planning and coordination for the program activities across all states.
-   Perform any other duties as may be directed by the supervisor.

## Requirements

**QUALIFICATION:**

BSc/HND in Business Administration, Agriculture, Biological Sciences, Plant Breeding, or a related field with a minimum of six (6) years’ experience performing a similar role in a well-structured environment.

**COMPETENCIES:**

The ideal candidate must have:

-   Strong organizational, time management, problem-solving, and multitasking skills with a proactive, detail-oriented approach.
-   Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a professional and customer-focused demeanor.
-   Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and other relevant software applications.
-   Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and work effectively both independently and collaboratively while adhering to organizational policies and procedures.

## Benefits

We offer highly competitive salary with equally attractive benefits and excellent working conditions in a pleasant campus environment.

## Apply

[Apply at International Institute of Tropical Agriculture(IITA)](https://apply.workable.com/iita/j/347EC76245/apply)

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