Welcome to Data-Pop Alliance’s series, “Employee Spotlight,” where we shine a light on the talented individuals who make up Data-Pop Alliance. Our team members are what makes DPA thrive, and through this series, we aim to highlight their diverse backgrounds and inspiring stories. Today, we’re excited to feature Abubakar Sani Abdullahi, our Fundraising Officer. Based in Kaduna State, Abubakar has been collaborating with DPA for over 2 years. Join us as we explore his journey.
*This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.
Could you start by sharing two books (fiction or nonfiction) that shaped you?
ASA: One book that really shaped my life is called Youth Without Borders. It was one of the compulsory books we had to read after secondary school to be able to pass the university entrance exam. The story is about young age, and how the influence of others and of society can change someone’s behavior. This book made me more aware of how much friends and the environment can shape your life, and I became more careful of who I spent time with, where I went, and what I chose to do.
Another book I read was on entrepreneurship, called Black Generation. It explores the history of how Africa got its ancestral lineage and its business history, how commodities were used as items of exchange, for example. It made me think about how to become economically independent and how to change the narrative if you come from a poor background, and help build a better future for your children and future generations. I still have both of them!
I was really inspired by the chance to learn by working with people from different parts of the world [...]. It helped me see that we’re all the same, and I found that the people at DPA are incredibly kind and always willing to teach.
Tell us about your academic and professional background before DPA.
ASA: Starting with my academic background, I studied for a BSc Glass Technology during my undergraduate program. It’s a field where you learn how glass is produced from start to finish, and it has wide-ranging applications, from architecture to healthcare, mobile phones, cars, and more. Since that area is closely related to environmental issues, I became more interested in the environmental sciences. That led me to pursue a Master’s in Climate Change and Natural Resource Management. I am also working towards an MBA, which I’m completing via distance learning in India.
Before joining DPA, I volunteered with several youth organizations and NGOs in Nigeria and abroad. My interest in fundraising started when I worked at the ASHA Foundation, which provides scholarships for adult women, often in their mid-20s and beyond, who want to go back to school but can’t afford it. I worked there as an International Development Intern and became involved in fundraising activities like grant writing and supporting Calls for Proposals. That was when I realized how crucial fundraising is for NGOs. Even with a strong framework or mission, without funding, no real impact is possible. That realization motivated me to look for more opportunities in the field.
Eventually, I found a fundraising internship opportunity at DPA on LinkedIn. That was over two and a half years ago—and I’ve been fundraising ever since. But before applying, I took time to learn about the Programs, focus areas, and the team. I was looking for an opportunity to join a team with diverse backgrounds, and when I visited the team page, I saw people from all over the world, with different cultures, ethnicities, and religions. That diversity really drew me in.
I was really inspired by the chance to learn—not just professionally, but personally—by working with people from different parts of the world. It helped me see that we’re all the same, and I found that people at DPA are incredibly kind and always willing to teach. Here, I’ve had the chance to work and grow alongside incredibly bright minds—Emmanuel Letouzé, Andres Lozano, Nicolas de Cordes, Laila Lorenzon, and many others. Every interaction is a learning opportunity, and I truly cherish my time here.
How do you align fundraising strategies with DPA’s mission and values, especially when seeking support for complex, interdisciplinary projects?
ASA: Being part of the fundraising team means you need to understand the full scope of what DPA does. When assessing a funding opportunity, whether it’s related to gender-based violence, climate change, or another topic,I always check how it aligns with DPA’s past work or strategic priorities.
For example, if a Call for Proposals (CFP) is focused on gender data, I look at whether DPA has experience in that area or plans to expand its work in that direction. I compare the CFP requirements with DPA’s activities to see if there’s a strong match. That helps me determine whether it’s worth pursuing.
Of course, sometimes the opportunity might fall into a gray area; maybe the scope is broad, the deadline is tight, or it involves a new direction. In those cases, I bring it to the team, either a Project Manager or a Director, and we discuss it together. That way, we can make an informed decision based on both DPA’s mission and our capacity.
Even with a strong framework or mission, without funding, no real impact is possible.
What does it look like to build a relationship with a funder at DPA — from the first conversation to final reporting?
ASA: Building a relationship with a funder starts with being open, approachable, and ready to initiate a conversation. As a fundraiser, you have to be cheerful and proactive—you’re often the one starting the dialogue.
Typically, I introduce myself and explain what we do at DPA in a way that connects with the funder’s interests. That kind of introduction usually opens the door to a deeper conversation, in which I have the opportunity to share our story, talking about our Thematic Programs, our impact, and our vision. Throughout this process, it’s important to stay open, responsive, and transparent. It’s about telling the story of what we’ve done, what we’re doing, and what we aim to achieve—with their support. From that first interaction to formal proposal development, and later, reporting and accountability, we aim to build trust and show our commitment every step of the way.
ASA: The most rewarding project I’ve worked on so far was Feasibility Study for the Establishment of a Category 2 Centre under UNESCO. It was my first in-country project—and it took place in my home country, Nigeria—which made it especially meaningful.
Through this project, I had the opportunity to meet and engage with many government officials. I visited several important places in the capital city, conducted interviews with key stakeholders, and gained a deeper understanding of how government processes work. I also had the chance of meeting a colleague—Nelson Papi Kolliesuah—in person for the first time. We spent five days together in the field, traveling, working, and even eating the same food. It was a great bonding experience and a reminder of how valuable in-person collaboration can be.
Moving on to lighter topics, could you share what you enjoy doing most outside work?
ASA: I really enjoy being in touch with nature—I love planting trees and crops. I also find great joy in helping and supporting people. In fact, before I joined DPA, I founded an NGO called the Life of Desal Foundation, which is still active today. Seeing the foundation grow and support people in need—whether directly or indirectly—is one of my biggest dreams. It gives me a deep sense of relief and happiness to know that my resources and efforts are contributing to community development.
At home, I love cooking and eating good food. I also enjoy watching movies, especially when it’s raining—that’s one of my favorite moments. Lately, I’ve even been watching some animated series like Naruto. My friends send them to me, and even though I don’t always understand what’s going on, I find myself laughing—it’s a fun and light way to unwind.
To learn more about DPA’s team, visit this page.
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