Who We Are

BOWDI team
Our Story

Building Bridges Since 2013

The Bridge for Women Development Initiative (BOWDI) was founded in 2013 with a clear mission: to empower women and girls across Nigeria to overcome barriers, claim their rights, and transform their communities.

Working primarily in conflict-affected and underserved regions of Northeast and Northwest Nigeria, BOWDI has grown from a small community initiative to a respected organization that has impacted over 3 million lives across seven states.

Our holistic approach addresses the root causes of inequality and vulnerability, while providing immediate support to those in crisis. We believe that when women thrive, communities flourish.

BOWDI programs
Our Approach

Community-Led, Impact-Driven

At BOWDI, we believe sustainable change comes from within communities. Our programs are designed in close consultation with local leaders, beneficiaries, and stakeholders to ensure relevance and ownership.

We combine direct service delivery with capacity building, advocacy, and systems strengthening to create lasting impact. Our team of dedicated professionals brings decades of combined experience in humanitarian response, development, and women's empowerment.

Our Mission

To empower women and girls across Nigeria through comprehensive programs in protection, education, livelihoods, and peacebuilding, enabling them to overcome barriers, claim their rights, and transform their communities.

Our Vision

A just, equitable society where every woman and girl can live free from violence, access quality education, participate fully in economic and social life, and realize her full potential.

What Guides Us

Our Core Values

Humanity

Every person deserves dignity, respect, and the opportunity to thrive.

Integrity

We operate with transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct.

Inclusivity

We embrace diversity and ensure no one is left behind.

Empowerment

We enable communities to be agents of their own transformation.

Sustainability

We create programs that generate lasting, positive change.

Innovation

We continuously seek better ways to serve and create impact.

Learning

We believe in evidence-based approaches and continuous improvement.

Partnership

We collaborate with stakeholders for greater collective impact.

Where We Work

Our Geographic Presence

BOWDI operates across seven states in Nigeria, focusing on conflict-affected and underserved communities.

Coverage by State

Borno State - 42%
Adamawa State - 20%
Yobe State - 16%
Sokoto State - 8%
Katsina State - 6%
Zamfara State - 5%
Niger State - 3%
Headquarters: Maiduguri, Borno State
Our Leadership

Meet Our Team

The dedicated professionals leading BOWDI's mission across Nigeria.

Mrs. Aisha Abdurrahman

Executive Director

Leading BOWDI's vision since 2013 with over 20 years of experience in women's rights advocacy.

Munira Yerima

Head of Programs

Overseeing program implementation across seven states with expertise in conflict resolution.

Amamma Abubakar

MEAL Lead

Ensuring efficient operations and resource management across all BOWDI programs.

Aisha Asheikh

Finance Coordinator

Managing financial operations and ensuring transparency in all BOWDI transactions.

Sadiq Talba

Communications & Advocacy

Building strong relationships with communities and beneficiaries across all program areas.