The Lake Chad Basin (LCB), encompassing Chad, Cameroon, Niger, and Nigeria, has been profoundly affected by protracted conflict, insecurity, and the activities of non-state armed groups (NSAGs). In response, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with regional and national partners, has spearheaded a series of regional workshops since 2020 to advance Disengagement, Disassociation, Reintegration, and Reconciliation (DDRR) programming. These workshops have become a platforms for dialogue, experience sharing, and coordination among senior governmental stakeholders, facilitating the harmonization of approaches and strengthening regional cooperation. 

Despite progress in DDRR, socio-economic reintegration remains a critical and complex challenge. Former associates of NSAGs face significant barriers to sustainable economic inclusion, such as limited access to livelihoods, vocational skills development, financial services, and employment opportunities. These obstacles are compounded by persistent stigma and fragile local economies. 

The reintegration process is further complicated by the need to address not only the needs of former associates but also those of host communities, to promote acceptance, reduce tensions, and foster social cohesion. Supporting both individuals and communities is essential for stabilization, resilience, and long-term peacebuilding in conflict-affected areas. 

Recognizing these challenges, the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) adopted the Community-Based Reconciliation and Reintegration Policy (CBRRP) in January 2025. This policy provides a comprehensive framework for stakeholders and practitioners to harmonize national approaches and enhance the implementation of reintegration programming across the region. However, for the CBRRP to achieve its full potential, it must be effectively integrated into national strategies and operationalized at the community level. 

A key opportunity identified in recent years is the expansion of public-private partnerships (PPPs) within DDRR frameworks. Engaging the private sector can unlock new avenues for vocational training, job creation, and financial inclusion, while fostering innovation and sustainability in reintegration programming. By leveraging the expertise and resources of private sector actors, DDRR initiatives can become more responsive to market realities and better equipped to support the economic empowerment of former associates and their communities. 

This regional workshop will bring together senior DDRR government counterparts, IOM program managers, representatives from the LCBC, development partners, private sector entities, and civil society to develop harmonized regional approaches that promote inclusive, sustainable, and community-driven reintegration pathways. 

Through this initiative, the LCB region seeks to strengthen regional coordination, improve programmatic design for socio-economic assistance, expand PPPs, and ensure that reintegration programming is gender-sensitive and inclusive. The workshop’s outcomes are expected to inform future DDRR programming, donor engagement, and regional policy alignment, contributing to lasting peace and stability in the Lake Chad Basin.

1. Workshop Objectives:

Following the workshop concept note included in Annex 1, the objective of the workshop is to: 

• Discuss socio-economic (SEC) assistance in DDRR programming across the LCB, focusing on how PPPs can enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of rehabilitation, reintegration, and reconciliation efforts.
• Identify strategies and practices to strengthen the sustainability of SEC assistance, including diversification of support, private sector engagement, market linkages, job matching, and gender considerations.
• Foster high-level engagement and commitment from senior government officials to integrate SEC assistance improvements, encourage cross-border collaboration, and ensure gender-responsive and inclusive programming.

1. Scope of Work: 

Following the concept note included in Annex 1, under the direct supervision of the DDRR Project Manager, and in coordination and ONSA, the consultant will:

a. Workshop Design:

• Develop a detailed agenda and methodology for a 2.5 day regional workshop, including plenary sessions, breakout groups, and strategic planning.
• Coordinate with IOM, government counterparts, private sector, and other stakeholders to ensure the agenda reflects regional priorities and best practices.
• Prepare background materials, presentations, and facilitation guides.

b. Workshop Delivery:

• Facilitate all workshop sessions, including opening, plenary, breakout, and closing sessions.
• Guide thematic discussions on PPPs, vocational training, job matching, market linkages, business incubation, and gender inclusion.
• Ensure inclusive participation and effective knowledge exchange among all stakeholders.

c. Reporting:

• Produce a comprehensive workshop report summarizing key findings, recommendations, and action points.
• Develop a set of harmonized, actionable recommendations for SEC assistance in DDRR programming.
• Propose monitoring and follow-up mechanisms for implementation of workshop outcomes.

Duration and Timeframe:

• The consultancy will last for two months, including preparation, workshop delivery, and reporting. 
• The workshop can take place from mid-January 2026 to Mid Feb 2026, with all deliverables to be completed by mid-March 2026 by the latest.

Logistics:

• IOM will be responsible for all logistical arrangements related to the workshop delivery, including sending invitations, booking local flights to the international delegations and hotel accommodations. 
• The consultant will be responsible for arranging and covering the costs of their own airfare and accommodation in Abuja for the duration of the workshop delivery. The consultancy fee is all-inclusive and should cover all other expenses incurred by the consultant.

Performance Indicators for the Evaluation of Results:

• Timely submission of high-quality workshop materials and reports. 
• Effective facilitation and participant engagement during the workshop. 
• Positive feedback from participants and stakeholders. 
• Delivery of actionable, context-specific recommendations. 

1. Education, Experience and/or Skills Required: 

• Advanced university degree in social sciences, development studies, peacebuilding, or related field. 
• Minimum five years of relevant professional experience in DDRR, socio-economic reintegration, or related areas. 
• Proven experience in designing and facilitating multi-stakeholder workshops, preferably in the Lake Chad Basin or similar contexts. 
• Experience working with government, private sector, and international organizations.

Competencies:

• Strong facilitation, communication, and interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to engage diverse stakeholders and foster collaborative dialogue. 
• Analytical and report-writing skills. 
• Cultural sensitivity and ability to work in multi-country, multi-sectoral environments. 
• Gender and inclusion awareness.

Values:

• Commitment to IOM’s principles and values, including respect for diversity, integrity, and professionalism. 
• Adherence to ethical standards and confidentiality. 
• Promotion of gender equality and social inclusion.