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Applications are now open for the Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace (COFP) Fellowship Programme 2026/2027, a one-year leadership and peacebuilding initiative designed to equip emerging African leaders with the skills, knowledge, and networks required to address conflict and promote sustainable peace across the continent.
The fellowship brings together young professionals and changemakers committed to advancing dialogue, social cohesion, and inclusive development within their communities. With Africa facing complex social, political, and religious challenges, the programme aims to nurture a new generation of leaders capable of driving locally relevant and collaborative solutions.
Since its launch in 2018, the COFP Fellowship has trained over 363 fellows from 17 African countries, many of whom are now actively contributing to peacebuilding efforts within civil society, government institutions, academia, media, and international organisations.
About the Programme
The COFP Fellowship is structured as a one-year immersive experience combining academic learning, practical application, and continental networking.
Fellows participate in three intensive training modules, held quarterly in Abuja, Nigeria. Each module consists of a week-long in-person engagement focused on key areas such as conflict transformation, mediation, and interreligious dialogue.
In addition to the training, fellows receive seed funding to design and implement community-based peacebuilding projects. This ensures that participants translate theoretical knowledge into practical impact within their communities.
At the end of the programme, fellows are awarded professional certificates in relevant peacebuilding disciplines, further strengthening their capacity and credibility in the field.
Fellowship Benefits
Participants selected for the programme will benefit from:
- Access to an African-led and context-driven peacebuilding curriculum
- Hands-on training delivered by experienced practitioners and scholars
- Seed grants to implement community peacebuilding projects
- Professional certification in Interreligious Dialogue, Conflict Transformation, and Mediation
- Membership in the COFP Africa Network of Peacebuilders (CANEP)
Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship is open to applicants from across Africa who are actively engaged or interested in peacebuilding and social impact. Suitable candidates include:
- Young professionals
- Academics and researchers
- Community and civil society leaders
- Faith-based leaders
- Government personnel
- NGO practitioners and changemakers
Applicants should demonstrate a clear commitment to promoting peace, dialogue, social justice, and community development within their respective contexts.
Cost of Participation
Participation in the COFP Fellowship Programme is free. However, selected fellows will be responsible for covering their transportation costs to Abuja, Nigeria, for the three in-person training sessions.
Application Process
Interested candidates are required to:
- Complete the online application form
- Upload all necessary supporting documents
- Submit their applications before the deadline
Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submission of applications is 10th May, 2026.
How to Apply
Applicants can access the application portal via the link below.
This fellowship presents a significant opportunity for emerging African leaders to strengthen their capacity, expand their networks, and contribute meaningfully to peacebuilding efforts across the continent.
