Fatima Habib is a 24-year-old graduate of political science from the University of Maiduguri.
Known for her advocacy and campaign against child abuse, sexual exploitation, and gender-based violence and for promoting girl child education in disadvantaged communities, the humanitarian established a not-for-profit organisation, Advocacy for Human Value Foundation (AHVF), at the age of 14.
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She is a firebrand advocate fighting against illiteracy in Northern Nigeria and championed the #BringBackOurGirls campaign in the Northeast at the time of Boko Haram activities.
The organisation has a workforce of over 1,300 volunteers across the northern part of Nigeria and 30 staff. Its activities centre in Abuja, Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, Kano, Taraba, Jigawa and Katsina states.
Her philanthropic ideals have impacted over 6,000 lives in 73 marginalised communities across the northern region.
What inspired your humanitarian activities?
The driving force behind my commitment to humanitarian work is the deep-rooted belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every individual. Witnessing the struggles faced by marginalised communities and recognising the immense potential for positive change motivates me to dedicate myself to humanitarian causes. It is inspiring to see how a collective effort, even on a small scale, can make a significant difference in improving the lives of those who are vulnerable and in need. The resilience, strength, and hope exhibited by individuals facing adversity inspire me to continue working in the direction of creating a more just, egalitarian and compassionate world.
At what age did your journey begin?
My journey in humanitarian work began at my teenage life. It was during this time that I started to actively engage with social issues, volunteering my time and resources to support local initiatives that aimed to uplift marginalised communities. Through these experiences, I developed a deep sense of empathy and a strong desire to contribute to addressing the root causes of social inequality. It was a transformative period that solidified my commitment to humanitarian work and set me on a path of lifelong learning and service hence the establishment of Advocacy for Human Value Foundation.
What are your aims and objectives?
As a humanitarian, my overarching aim is to promote social justice, alleviate poverty and foster sustainable development. My objectives are centred around creating long-term positive change by addressing the underlying systemic issues that perpetuate inequality. I believe in empowering individuals and communities by providing access to education, healthcare, livelihood opportunities and essential services. I aim to facilitate their active participation in decision-making processes, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are protected. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to building resilient communities that can thrive independently and sustainably.
According to available data, women and children are the worst victims of Boko Haram. What plans do you have for them?
Recognising the devastating impact of conflict and violence, particularly, on women and children, my plans for those affected by Boko Haram involve a comprehensive approach. I prioritise their safety, well-being and empowerment. This includes, providing access to quality education, healthcare, nutrition, and psycho-social support tailored to their specific needs. I am committed to working closely with local communities and organisations to create safe spaces, advocate for their rights and facilitate their reintegration into society. By addressing the unique challenges faced by women and children, I aim to empower them to rebuild their lives and become agents of positive change within their communities.
What are the setbacks you face in running an NGO in Nigeria?
Running an NGO in Nigeria presents several challenges. One of the primary setbacks is limited funding. Securing sustainable financial resources to support our programmes and cover operational costs can be a constant struggle. Additionally, navigating the bureaucratic landscape and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements can be time-consuming and resource-intensive.
Infrastructure constraints, such as, inadequate transportation and communication networks can also pose challenges in implementing projects effectively. Moreover, security concerns in certain regions require careful risk assessment and mitigation strategies. However, despite these enumerated setbacks, I remain committed to finding creative and realistic solutions, forging partnerships and leveraging the resilience and resourcefulness of local communities to overcome obstacles.
Now, it’s almost 10 years. What are your challenges and achievements so far?
Over the past 10 years, our organisation has encountered a range of challenges. From limited resources and the need to prioritise project scalability to navigating complex socio-political contexts; each obstacle has demanded adaptability and perseverance.
However, despite these challenges, we have achieved significant milestones. Our projects have positively impacted the lives of thousands of individuals, empowering them with education, healthcare and sustainable livelihood opportunities. We have established sustainable initiatives that have contributed to community resilience and fostered long-term development.
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