Queen Esther Iroanusi, formerly a Senior Political Reporter with Premium Times recently joined the Norwegian Embassy in Nigeria as the new Political and Development Adviser. In this brief chat, she spoke about her new job, how she got it and other details.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in French language and Literature from Nasarawa State University and is also a fellow of the Female Reporters Leadership Project of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism.
What the job entails
The role is basically aimed at providing advice on Nigerian politics to the Ambassador and the embassy.
It also entails preparing briefings for political visits in Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
I am also to take part in the embassy’s cooperation with development partners. As well as play a major role in the embassy’s communication work.
Reaction to getting the job
I saw the call on LinkedIn and casually applied. I had doubts when I applied because I know a few people who occupy such positions and they are in their 50s and 60s with about 20 years of experience.
The application also said to limit the cover letter to 300 words, so I felt I did not write all I would have wanted to write in the application.
I was shocked when I got an invitation for an interview weeks after.
After some days, I was invited for a second interview and by this time, I was optimistic.
I was eventually called and offered the position. I later found out that over 700 people applied for the job, 17 were interviewed at the first stage, five at the second stage and I was the only one who made it to the final stage.
What gave you the edge over other applicants
I think my knowledge of Nigerian politics, journalism and a foreign language gave me an edge.
I also think the manner I made my presentation during the interview was an added advantage as well.
Then there’s the grace of God as well.
This job is different from the demands of journalism. It is about what I expected when I decided I wanted to transition into diplomacy.
Transiting from journalism to Diplomacy
My decision to transition was borne from the need to be part of the policy implementation process. As journalists, one becomes a watchdog and demands accountability. And in a country like Nigeria, it gets frustrating when there is little impact.
I however believe, in the diplomatic sector, along with implementing partners and governments of other countries, a lot more can be done to implement policies arising from the calls for accountability.
It has been a roller coaster of emotions since I started and I’m excited about the new phase.