Grant Writing Officer at American University of Nigeria (AUN)

The institution was conceived as Africa’s first Development University. Its mission is to pioneer service learning and build leaders who will be prepared to tackle societal concerns. Located in Yola, Adamawa State, the University is a world-class career-oriented institution missioned to be an agent of change in the development of the region. AUN has a strong commitment to providing the skills and the leadership essential to solving the continent’s critical social and economic problems. The University offers an American-style education modelled after the curriculum of American universities with corresponding approaches to teaching and students assessment. The first entering class of 124 students and 20 professors was enrolled in September 2005. The University started on temporary buildings at the AUN Academy located directly opposite the AUN campus. In seven years, AUN is fast becoming a model for other universities in Nigeria and West Africa. At AUN Enrolees are provided with the tools to achieve personal growth and material success. AUN is a completely wireless University, which is highly focused on IT. Computers, the internet and other critical IT facilities are key tools in teaching. These facilities are deployed in classes and completion of course assignments. With great emphasis on small classes, AUN’s main goal is to graduate well-educated and qualified students in both general knowledge and specialized disciplines. Having acquired first class American education right here in Nigeria, AUN students can remain in the country or Africa and contribute as entrepreneurs, corporate business people, government leaders, scientists and good citizens. AUN offers a complete academic string ranging from elementary, through secondary, to undergraduate to graduate school. The AUN Academy across from the main campus, operates the elementary school, a Charter School, and a high school with American and international tracks. Since 2009, AUN has consistently graduated four classes. Many of these alumni have either enrolled into top graduate schools abroad, taken up jobs in key organizations or have established personal businesses around the country and abroad. AUN has a sprinkle of international students from around the world ranging from UK, USA, Niger Republic, Ghana, Cameroun and Rwanda. The biggest foreign enrolment ever is from Rwanda where seventeen students have enrolled for the fall 2012 semester. Resulting from AUN’s unique approach to teaching and community service, the University receives accolades from international organizations and institutions. In 2011 the American Peace Corps, while celebrating its 50th anniversary, conferred on the AUN Founder the first ever Harry Wofford Global Citizenship award for his uncommon generosity and unusual support to higher education. Also in 2011 the AUN President Dr. Margee Ensign won the African Leadership award in Educational Excellence in the UK. In October 2012 AUN was also conferred with another prestigious award in Atlanta Georgia titled Africa Leading University Award 2012.

The Grant Writing Officer is charged with the responsibility of identifying, researching, and securing external funding opportunities that support the mission of the American University of Nigeria (AUN) and its humanitarian and educational initiatives. Working closely with the Atiku Institute for Development, the officer will develop high-quality proposals, concept notes, and grant applications to international donors, foundations, foreign aid agencies, and other funding institutions. This position requires exceptional research, writing, and relationship-building skills, as well as a deep commitment to advancing AUN’s dual mission of excellence in education and community development.

DETAILED LISTING OF RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct in-depth research to identify relevant funding opportunities from international donors, foreign governments, foundations, NGOs, and multilateral organizations.
• Track trends in humanitarian aid, development funding, and education-related grants that align with AUN and AID priorities.
• Prepare compelling and competitive proposals, concept notes, letters of inquiry, and full grant applications.
• Ensure all proposals align with donor requirements, technical guidelines, and institutional goals.
• Collaborate with program managers, faculty, and leadership to gather information and articulate project goals, outcomes, and impact.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with funding agencies, development partners, and grant-making bodies.
• Support the Atiku Institute and AUN leadership in engaging with donors through communication materials, reports, and updates.
• Maintain a database of funding opportunities, deadlines, and submission statuses.
• Assist in preparing progress and final reports to funders, ensuring compliance with grant agreements.
• Coordinate with finance and program teams to prepare budgets and track grant expenditures.
• Help support faculty who are seeking grants with providing them appropriate documents.
• Perform any other duties as assigned or delegated by the supervisor.

Requirements for the position:

• Bachelor’s degree in International Development, English, Communications, Education, Public Policy, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 3–5 years of proven experience in grant writing and fundraising, preferably in higher education, NGOs, or international development.
• Demonstrated success in securing grants from major international donors (e.g., USAID, DFID/FCDO, EU, UN agencies, international foundations).
• Strong research, analytical, and writing skills with the ability to tailor proposals to donor priorities.
• Familiarity with humanitarian aid, education development, and community engagement programs in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for collaboration with internal teams and external donors.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet strict deadlines.

Other requirements, abilities for the position:

• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Attention to detail and ability to meet high-quality writing standards.
• Financial literacy to support budget development and compliance monitoring.
• Creativity in developing program narratives and framing institutional strengths.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and grant management software.

Description of Benefits:

• Salary and benefits are commensurate with experience and job classification as approved by the University.

Method of Application

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