Professional Diploma in NGO and Development Sector Leadership

COURSE OVERVIEW

TRANSFORMATIVE LEADERSHIP FOR SUSTAINABLE IMPACT

In the dynamic and often unpredictable landscape of development work, strong leadership is not just an asset—it’s a necessity. The Professional Diploma in NGO and Development Sector Leadership is a unique program tailored specifically for Chief of Parties, Public Administrators, Program Directors, Program Managers, and Project Officials who are at the forefront of delivering intervention, donor-funded, and public-funded programs and projects across Africa.

This program recognizes that leadership in the development sector demands more than just administrative skills; it requires a deep understanding of the complexities of the environments in which these projects operate, coupled with the ability to drive data-driven decisions that ensure long-term sustainability and impact.

Whether you are managing large-scale donor-funded initiatives, overseeing public sector projects, or leading cross-sectoral interventions, this diploma will equip you with the advanced leadership tools, strategies, and insights needed to deliver results that truly make a difference.

Throughout the program, you will engage with a diverse group of seasoned professionals from across the continent, sharing experiences, challenges, and solutions that will enrich your learning and enhance your leadership capabilities. You will explore the latest methodologies in program leadership, learn how to navigate the intricate dynamics of development work, and develop the skills to lead with vision, agility, and purpose.

By the end of the program, you will be empowered to lead with confidence, influence your organization’s direction, and drive your projects toward sustainable success. You will also be able to harness data and insights to make informed decisions that maximize impact, build resilience, and ensure that your interventions leave a lasting legacy.

Finally, you will earn a prestigious certification from the Nigerian College of Agribusiness, recognized across Africa for its excellence in leadership education for the development sector.

Your journey to becoming a transformative leader in the development sector starts here.

PROGRAMME SUMMARY

  • COURSE START DATE
    Admission is Ongoing
  • COURSE DURATION
    3 Months
  • CERTIFICATION
    Professional Diploma in NGO and Development Sector Leadership
  • MODE OF STUDY
    Live Classes Online
  • TUITION FEE
    Nigeria: N300,000
    International: $400
  • APPLY NOW

PROGRAM CURRICULUM

Module 1: Adaptive Leadership, Change Management, and Governance in the Development Sector

You will master the art of adaptive leadership, essential for navigating the complexities and uncertainties inherent in the development sector. This module will equip you with the skills to drive change and ensure robust governance within your organization. You will learn how to assess and respond to rapidly shifting environments, implement effective change management strategies, and foster a culture of accountability and transparency. By the end of this module, you will be adept at steering your projects through challenges, ensuring sustainability, and achieving long-term impact.

Module 2: Project Management and Performance Optimization

You will gain advanced skills in project management, tailored to the unique demands of development sector initiatives. This module will enhance your ability to plan, execute, and monitor projects with precision, ensuring that they are delivered on time, within scope, and with measurable impact. You will learn techniques for optimizing performance across multiple projects, managing risks, and employing best practices in monitoring and evaluation. By mastering these competencies, you will be able to lead complex, multi-stakeholder projects to success, ensuring efficient use of resources and maximum impact.

Module 3: Leading High-Performance Teams

You will learn how to build and lead high-performance teams that can deliver exceptional results in the challenging context of the development sector. This module focuses on developing your leadership skills to inspire, motivate, and guide diverse teams toward common goals. You will explore strategies for fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and enhancing team resilience in the face of adversity. By the end of this module, you will be equipped to lead teams that are agile, cohesive, and aligned with your organization’s mission, ensuring sustained success in your projects and programs.

Module 4: Financial Management and Resource Mobilization

You will develop a deep understanding of financial management practices and resource mobilization strategies essential for the sustainability of development sector projects. This module will provide you with the tools to effectively manage budgets, financial reporting, and donor relationships. You will learn how to design financial strategies that align with your project goals, ensure compliance, and optimize resource allocation. Additionally, you will explore innovative approaches to mobilizing resources from diverse funding streams, empowering you to secure the financial sustainability of your interventions.

Module 5: Stakeholder Engagement and Partnership Building

You will master the critical skill of stakeholder engagement, essential for driving the success of development projects. This module will teach you how to identify, engage, and manage relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, government agencies, local communities, and private sector partners. You will learn strategies for building effective partnerships, managing conflicts, and aligning stakeholder interests with your project goals. By the end of this module, you will be able to forge strong, collaborative relationships that enhance the impact and sustainability of your projects.

Module 6: Data-Driven Decision Making and Impact Evaluation

You will learn how to harness data to drive decision-making and evaluate the impact of your projects. This module will equip you with the skills to collect, analyse, and interpret data effectively, enabling you to make informed decisions that enhance project outcomes. You will explore methodologies for measuring and reporting impact, ensuring transparency, and accountability to stakeholders. By mastering data-driven decision-making, you will be able to demonstrate the success of your interventions, secure ongoing support, and continually refine your strategies for greater effectiveness.

Faculty Members

The Nigerian College of Agribusiness has about 60 faculty members—distinguished scholars, industry leaders, and mentors, with more being hired each year as we open new, progressive, and unique programs. But the story is not just in the numbers. Each year, as we launch innovative and unique programs, our faculty continues to grow, bringing in fresh perspectives and expertise. At NCA, you will learn directly from these award-winning faculty members in small classes where you will have easy access to them.

Some of the faculty members on the Professional Diploma in Development Sector Leadership are:

Tayo Alabi (1)

Omotayo Alabi

Omotayo Alabi is a seasoned expert in Development Sector Leadership with over 20 years of extensive experience in program management, agricultural business, livelihoods, nutrition, food security, and environmental sustainability. A highly respected figure in the humanitarian asectors, Omotayo has a proven track record of driving impactful change across diverse, complex, and challenging environments.

With a deep understanding of the development sector, Omotayo is PRINCE2 certified and has demonstrated excellence in managing European Union Framework Contracts and other major international development projects. His strategic vision and operational expertise have been instrumental in the successful execution of  projects funded by leading global agencies such as the European Union, USAID, Irish Aid, UNFAO, UNHCR, and WFP. His ability to design and implement scalable, sustainable development programs has consistently delivered tangible benefits to communities, improving livelihoods, food security, and environmental resilience.

Omotayo holds a Master of Science (MSc) in Programme and Project Management from the University of Chester, UK.

Godwin-Osagbemi (2)

Godwin Osagbemi

Godwin Osagbemi is a prominent financial analyst specializing in accounting and investment management for the food and agribusiness industries in Africa. A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA), he has served as Chief Finance Officer at PNG Gas and Senior Consultant in Risk Management at KPMG. He holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Data Analysis from Cornell University, USA, and an MBA in International Agribusiness and Food Chain Management from Lead City University, Nigeria.

Segun Odebiyi

Olusegun Odebiyi

Olusegun Odebiyi is a seasoned business analyst with extensive leadership and operational experience in the agrifood industry across Africa. He is a Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) from the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) and holds dual MBAs: one in International Agribusiness and Food Chain Management from Lead City University, Nigeria, and another from Anglia Ruskin University, UK.

Olusegun is a highly sought-after business analytics professional with a remarkable portfolio of executed projects in the food and agriculture sectors. Currently serving as a Senior Consultant at Kibbutz Coop in Ghana, he brings a wealth of knowledge and practical expertise to the Mini program. His previous roles include National On-Trade Retail Channels Manager at Guinness Nigeria and Business Process Development Manager at the Nigerian Bottling Company Plc (a Coca-Cola HBC Company).

Why Study at the Nigerian College of Agribusiness?

No other institution in Africa offers such a comprehensive approach to agribusiness and development sector education as the Nigerian College of Agribusiness. We provide a unique blend of academic rigor, practical expertise, and industry connections. Here, you will learn from experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields and deeply engaged with the latest advancements in their industries. We leverage interdisciplinary knowledge and the latest research to enhance our programs, ensuring they are relevant and impactful. At NCA, you will continuously engage with thought leaders who are constantly shaping the dynamics of their industries and after graduation, you will be a life-long member of a vibrant alumni community that continually foster cross-disciplinary learning and networking.

Tuition Fee

Local Students: N300,000

International Students: $400

Course Start Date

Admission is Ongoing

ADMISSION CRITERIA

We seek highly motivated individuals who have demonstrated the potential to excel in a rigorous, integrated program. The admission requirements for the Professional Diploma in NGO and Development Sector Leadership.  are as follows:

  1. University Degree: Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree from an institution recognized by the Nigerian College of Agribusiness.
  2. Interview Assessment: Candidates must demonstrate satisfactory performance in an online interview assessment, showcasing their readiness for the program’s challenges.
  3. English Proficiency: A strong command of the English language is essential, as it is the medium of instruction and communication.
  4. Digital Competency: Applicants should possess solid skills in internet navigation and online learning tools, ensuring they can effectively participate in the program’s online format.

APPLY NOW

Admission is Ongoing for the Professional Diploma in NGO and Development Sector Leadership.

To apply for this program, please complete and submit the application form below.

Contact Us
Nigeria
Head, Mini MBA Programs Nigerian College of Agribusiness 10, Bisi Akande Rd, Oluyole Estate, Ibadan Plot 502, Dalaba Crescent, Zone 5, Abuja
Email: [email protected]
Tel/WhatsApp: 09023789104 (Local) +2349023789104
(International)
South Africa Representative
Destiny Smart
Durban, South Africa
Tel/WhatsApp: +27844117039
Uganda Representative
Mark Andrew
Kampala, Uganda
Tel/WhatsApp: +256 701 9777 11
Zimbabwe Representative
Biriwasha Masimba
Harare, Zimbabwe
Tel/WhatsApp: +256 784 121 347
South Sudan Representative
Cinya Robert Rufino
Juba, South Sudan
Tel/Whatsapp: +256 784 121 347