This guide provides candidates for the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) with a strategic, step-by-step approach to preparing and recording the mandatory 60-second introductory video. It outlines the crucial need for pre-recording research, lists the seven essential elements required in the pitch (including career aspirations and contribution plans), and offers five key tips for ensuring technical polish and professional delivery (such as using a clean background and maximizing the re-record feature) to avoid disqualification and make the applicant stand out to the assessors.
Ultimate Guide To Preparing Your Introductory Video For The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme And Stand Out (Hidden Tips)
The video pitch is a critical stage in the NJFP application, acting as a personal interview substitute designed to assess your communication skills and program alignment. Success hinges on precise delivery and impeccable technical presentation, all condensed into just 60 seconds.
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The Crucial First Step: Research Before You Record
It is understandable to see comments from people who completed their CBT exam and immediately proceeded to record their introductory video. However, it is crucial for everyone to conduct thorough personal research on what makes you an “ideal candidate” before rushing to create the introductory video.
Why the rush is risky
The introductory video is not a formality. it is a direct interview substitute designed to assess your communication skills, commitment, and alignment with the programme’s values.
There is a belief that the introductory video could be used as an additional means to disqualify candidates. Therefore, candidates should seriously prepare before submitting their video. This is your chance to show passion and professionalism that a CV cannot capture.
Mandatory Technical Requirements for the Video Stage
For the video stage, candidates must return to the portal to record a one-minute introduction. Please note the following non-negotiable requirements:
- Direct Recording: No pre-recorded videos are allowed. The video must be recorded live through the portal’s interface.
- Aesthetics: Use a clean and quiet background to minimize distraction.
- Clarity: Ensure you use a clear camera (good webcam or phone camera) and that the microphone captures natural speech.
- Quality Control: Candidates are strongly encouraged to re-record until satisfied before final submission. This function is available for a reason—use it!
Top 7 Elements to Include in Your Introductory Video for the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme
Your video script must be concise, impactful, and cover the following vital areas, all within the 60-second limit.
- Full Name and Current Status: State your full name and your current status (e.g., recent graduate, current location, or brief professional status).
- Educational Background: A brief sentence about your highest educational background (university and discipline).
- Why NJFP: Explain clearly and passionately why you are interested in the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme.
- Your Contribution: How you believe you will specifically contribute to the host organization or the national development goals of the NJFP.
- Career Aspiration: A short mention of your future career aspirations and what key skills you hope to gain from the fellowship experience.
- The ‘Why Me’ Factor: Include one compelling, unique sentence that highlights a transferable skill or experience that makes you instantly stand out.
- Link to Mission: Briefly connect your academic discipline or previous work experience directly to the mission or focus area of the Jubilee Fellows Programme.
Sample NJFP Introduction Script (Approx. 55 seconds)
This sample is tailored for a fictional candidate, Emeka, who is applying for a role in Data Management or Economic Planning.
| Time | Element | Script |
|---|---|---|
| 0-5s | Hook & Identity | Good morning. My name is Emeka Nwafor, and I am a recent First-Class Honours graduate in Economics from the University of Ibadan, currently based in Abuja. |
| 5-15s | Core Skill & ‘Why Me’ | Throughout my academic career, I focused extensively on sustainable development models and data-driven policy evaluation. I previously led a successful pro-bono project that streamlined data collection for 15 SMEs in Lagos, resulting in a 20% efficiency boost. My core strength lies in translating complex data into actionable strategies. |
| 15-25s | Why NJFP | I am fundamentally interested in the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme because it offers the direct, high-impact exposure necessary to apply my quantitative skills to national economic challenges, particularly in the post-pandemic recovery efforts. I see this as the definitive platform to transition from theory to practice. |
| 25-40s | Contribution | I believe I can make an immediate, tangible contribution to a host organization in the Economic Planning or Data Management sector. Specifically, I plan to leverage my proficiency in advanced statistical software to help benchmark operational efficiency and create predictive models that optimize resource allocation, directly supporting the NJFP’s goal of stimulating the non-oil sector. |
| 40-50s | Aspiration & Close | In the next five years, my aspiration is to become a certified policy analyst dedicated to improving government transparency and accountability. The NJFP offers the professional network and mentorship I need to achieve this goal, and I am eager to learn from established leaders. |
| 50-55s | Final Statement | Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute my best to the success of the Jubilee Fellows Programme. |
5 Key Tips for Your Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme Introductory Video
These additional tips will ensure your video is technically polished and professionally engaging, maximizing your chances of moving forward.
1. The 60-Second Discipline (The Hard Limit)
Make sure the video is no longer than 60 seconds as specified. Practice your script until it fits comfortably within the time limit. If you exceed 60 seconds, the portal may cut you off or reject the submission.
2. Master the Technical Setup
Film in a quiet, well-lit place with a neutral background (a plain wall is ideal). Good lighting is crucial for looking clear and professional. Also, ensure your internet upload works smoothly before you start the final recording attempt (some candidates reported delays).
3. Maintain Professional Engagement
Look directly at the camera so you appear engaged and confident, as if you are making direct eye contact with the interviewer. Speak clearly and at a steady, deliberate pace. Avoid rushing, which can make you sound nervous.
4. Tone and Attire
Keep a friendly but highly professional tone. This is your personal introduction to a potential employer. Dress smart-casual (not overly formal, but neat, clean, and appropriate for a professional setting).
5. The Power of Rehearsal and Review (Hidden Tip)
Since the portal allows you to re-record, take advantage of it. Rehearse your script several times until it flows naturally. Record yourself practicing on your phone first to assess your body language and delivery. The ability to re-record is a hidden advantage—use it to submit the absolute best version of yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What Should You Include in Your Introductory Video for the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme?
You must cover your full name, current status, educational background, your interest in NJFP, your intended contribution, and a brief mention of your career aspirations and what you hope to gain.
2. Why Is Your Introductory Video Important for the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme?
The video serves as a critical interview substitute, designed to assess your communication skills, commitment, and alignment with the programme’s values. It is a key tool used by assessors to make final decisions.
3. When Is the Best Time to Submit Your Introductory Video for the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme?
The best time is after you have completed thorough personal research and meticulously prepared your script. Do not rush to submit immediately after taking the exam.
4. Who Can Help You Prepare for Your Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme Introductory Video?
While the recording is personal, you can ask peers, mentors, or family members to review your practice recordings to provide constructive feedback on your delivery, tone, and body language.
5. How Can You Make Your Introductory Video Stand Out for the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme?
Stand out by including a unique, compelling sentence that highlights a transferable skill (the ‘Why Me’ factor), maintaining excellent technical quality (lighting/sound), and using the re-record option to ensure flawless delivery.
6. What are the strict length requirements for the NJFP introductory video?
The video must be strictly no longer than 60 seconds. It is crucial to rehearse your script to fit comfortably within this hard time limit.
7. Can I pre-record my introductory video and upload it to the portal?
No. The programme strictly mandates that no pre-recorded videos are allowed. You must record the video live through the portal’s integrated camera interface.
8. What kind of background should I use for recording?
You should use a clean and quiet background, ideally a neutral or plain-colored wall, to ensure the focus remains entirely on you and your message.
9. What should I wear for the video?
You should dress smart-casual. The attire should be neat, clean, and appropriate for a professional setting. Avoid overly formal wear, but ensure you look presentable.
10. Should I look at the camera or read my notes?
You should look directly at the camera to appear engaged and confident, simulating direct eye contact with the interviewer. Avoid looking away, as this suggests reading a script.
