Applications Open: Become a Peacebuilder with the 2026 COFP Fellowship Programme for African Leaders.

Are you a young African passionate about peacebuilding, interfaith dialogue, and community transformation? The Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace (COFP) Fellowship Programme 2026/2027 offers a fully-funded, hands-on leadership opportunity designed by Africans for Africans. 

This prestigious one-year fellowship equips emerging leaders with practical skills in conflict transformation, mediation, and sustainable development. In a continent where peace and stability form the foundation for progress, the COFP Fellowship stands out as a powerful platform for changemakers ready to drive positive impact in their communities and beyond.

About the COFP Fellowship Programme

Founded by His Eminence Cardinal John Onaiyekan, the Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace works to promote interreligious dialogue, conflict resolution, and peaceful coexistence across Africa. Since 2018, the COFP Fellowship has empowered over 325 fellows from 16 African countries, creating a growing network of peace practitioners. 

The programme blends intensive training with real-world application. It features three in-person modules in Abuja, Nigeria, focusing on interreligious dialogue, conflict transformation, and mediation. Fellows develop and implement community-based peace projects, supported by mentorship and expert facilitation. 

What makes this fellowship unique is its Africa-led, context-driven approach. It addresses the continent’s specific peace and security challenges through practical, culturally relevant tools. Participants emerge not only with enhanced skills but also with a strong continental network of like-minded leaders committed to building bridges across divides.

Benefits: What Selected Fellows Receive

The COFP Fellowship delivers substantial value through a comprehensive package:

•  Fully-Funded Training: Coverage for the core programme costs, including modules in Abuja.

•  Professional Certification: Recognised university certificate in Interreligious Dialogue, Conflict Transformation, and Mediation.

•  Seed Grant: Funding to implement your own community peacebuilding project.

•  Mentorship and Expert Facilitation: Guidance from experienced practitioners and scholars.

•  Africa-Wide Network: Lifelong connections with fellows, alumni, and peace leaders across the continent.

•  Hands-On Leadership Experience: Practical skills application through project implementation and quarterly in-person sessions.

•  Personal and Professional Growth: Enhanced capacity for conflict resolution, dialogue, and community development. 

This combination of theory, practice, certification, and seed funding makes the programme a rare and high-impact opportunity for emerging leaders.

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship targets committed individuals who can drive change. You should:

•  Be a citizen of an African country and living/working in Africa.

•  Demonstrate strong interest or experience in peacebuilding, leadership, interfaith dialogue, or social development.

•  Show commitment to community impact and conflict resolution.

•  Be available to attend all in-person training sessions in Abuja, Nigeria (quarterly week-long modules).

•  Belong to one of these groups: young professionals, academicians, community leaders, civil society actors, faith-based leaders, government personnel, NGOs, or changemakers. 

No specific age limit is strictly defined, but the programme prioritises emerging and mid-level leaders with passion and potential for impact. Selected fellows must commit to full participation and project implementation.

Application Process & Key Dates

Applying is straightforward but requires careful preparation:

1.  Visit the official application portal: https://cofpfoundation.org/application/

2.  Complete the application form accurately.

3.  Upload all required documents (e.g., CV, statement of interest/motivation, relevant certificates, and references).

4.  Submit before the deadline.

Deadline: Applications typically close in mid-May (e.g., May 10 or 16, 2026 — confirm the exact date on the official site for the current cycle). 

Only complete applications submitted on time will be considered. Late or incomplete submissions are not reviewed.

Tips for a Strong Application

Stand out by being authentic and specific. Your statement of interest should clearly articulate:

•  Why peacebuilding matters to you and your community.

•  Any relevant experience or initiatives you’ve led or participated in.

•  A compelling idea for your community peace project.

Highlight your commitment to interfaith dialogue and practical action. Strong candidates demonstrate leadership potential, cultural sensitivity, and measurable impact orientation. Proofread thoroughly and ensure all documents are complete.

If selected, prepare for an intensive yet rewarding journey that demands dedication and active participation.

Why You Should Apply

In today’s Africa, peace is not just the absence of conflict — it is the foundation for development, innovation, and prosperity. The COFP Fellowship equips you with credible skills, a respected certification, seed funding for impact, and a powerful network that lasts beyond the programme year. 

Whether you work in civil society, faith communities, government, or grassroots initiatives, this fellowship amplifies your ability to create lasting change. Past fellows have gone on to implement impactful projects, influence policy, and become key voices in peace efforts across the continent.

Take Action Today

Don’t miss this transformative opportunity to invest in your leadership journey and contribute to a more peaceful Africa. Visit the official application page, prepare your documents, and submit early.

Apply Here: COFP Fellowship Application

Looking for more opportunities? Explore similar leadership and peacebuilding programmes on OpportunityPool.org.