Program Manager Maiduguri

The Program Manager at Heart for Humanity Initiative (HHI) will lead project planning, oversee implementation, manage budgets, and represent the organization in coordination meetings. The role requires at least 5 years of experience in humanitarian or development programming, with a Master’s degree in a relevant field.

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Heart for Humanity Initiative (HHI) is a non-profit, women-led and youth-driven organization committed to improving the well-being and resilience of vulnerable populations across Northeast and Northwest Nigeria. With a current operational presence in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe (BAY) States as well as parts of the Northwest, we provide critical humanitarian aid, advance human capital development, and strengthen systems for sustainable change.

Dedicated to protecting the dignity and rights of vulnerable populations in Nigeria, we deliver life-saving assistance and sustainable solutions to communities affected by conflict, poverty and inequality — with plans to expand further across the Northwest. We are  recruiting to fill the position below:

 Job Title: Program Manager

Location: Maiduguri, with field travel to Dikwa LGA, Borno

Employment Type: Full-time

Reports to: Executive Director

Supervises: All project staff

Duration: 3 months

Contract type: Fixed-term, full-time Purpose of the Role

Provides overall leadership of the project, making sure activities are delivered on time, within budget, to quality standards and in line with donor and organisational requirements.

Lead project planning, including the work plan, budget phasing and staffing plan for the 3-month period. Supervise, coach and appraise project staff; hold weekly team meetings. Oversee implementation in Dikwa LGA and make sure activities meet humanitarian standards (Sphere, Core Humanitarian Standard). Monitor budget use with the Finance & Compliance Officer and approve expenditure within delegated authority. Represent the organisation at sector and coordination meetings with government (SEMA, LGA authorities), UN agencies and other partners. Maintain relationships with donors; review and sign off progress and final reports. Identify risks (security, access, financial, safeguarding) and put mitigation plans in place. Ensure safeguarding, protection and do-no-harm principles are applied across all activities. Lead project close-out, including lessons learned and handover.

Qualifications and experience

Master’s degree in Development Studies, Social Sciences, Project Management, Public Health or a related field. A Bachelor’s degree with substantial extra experience is acceptable. At least 5 years in humanitarian or development programming, with at least 2 years in a management role. Experience managing donor-funded projects in North-East Nigeria. PMP, PMD Pro or similar certification is an advantage.

Strong leadership, planning and decision-making. Budget management and donor compliance knowledge. Excellent report writing and communication in English; Hausa or Kanuri is an advantage. Ability to work under pressure in an insecure environment.

13th November, 2026.  How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV and a cover letter to: [Email hidden - Login to reveal] using “Application – Program Manager” as the subject of the email.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Equal opportunity and safeguarding: Heart for Humanity Initiative is an equal opportunity employer. Women and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. We have zero tolerance for sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, fraud and corruption; successful candidates must sign the Code of Conduct and safeguarding policy. We never charge any fee at any stage of  recruitment.