Why I built radio station just for women– Toun Okewale Sonaiya

Toun Okewale Sonaiya, CEO of Women Radio 91.7, has reaffirmed her commitment to amplifying women’s voices in the Nigerian media landscape, emphasizing that purposeful storytelling and inclusive leadership are crucial for social transformation.

In an exclusive interview with, Mrs. Okewale Sonaiya recounted her journey in the media industry and how her passion for gender equity led to the establishment of Nigeria’s first radio station dedicated solely to women.

“My journey began with a deep passion for the media and a firm belief that women’s voices should be heard not as an afterthought, but at the heart of conversations where decisions are made,” she said.

According to her, the path to launching Women Radio 91.7 was met with scepticism, but the need to tell women’s stories and provide a platform for them to be heard drove her to persevere.

Reflecting on her leadership style, Okewale Sonaiya said women leaders inspire by example and lead with authenticity, mentoring others and creating opportunities for fellow women to rise.

“When one woman rises, she lights the way for many more,” she stated.

She also highlighted the distinct qualities women bring to leadership, such as emotional intelligence, collaboration, and empathy. These attributes, she noted, help women leaders foster inclusive workplaces and communities.

“Women don’t just manage people; they truly connect with them,” she said.

Addressing the challenges she faced in her industry, she spoke about the difficulty in gaining trust and support from stakeholders unaccustomed to women in leadership roles. She overcame these obstacles by proving the impact of Women Radio through tangible results and transformative stories.

One of the most defining moments in her career, she recalled, was helping a victim of domestic violence who called into the station and eventually found legal support and regained her independence. “Moments like this remind me why I started this journey,” she said.

To young Nigerian women aspiring to leadership, Okewale Sonaiya offered encouragement: “Believe in yourself, even when others doubt you. Speak up, take up space, and don’t be afraid to fail.”

Balancing her role as a CEO with personal life, she said, requires intentional decision-making, support systems, and the willingness to pause and recharge when necessary.

As the world marked International Women’s Day under the theme “Accelerate Action,” she described it as a call to urgently pursue gender equality through meaningful efforts. “It’s about taking action that truly makes a difference in women’s lives,” she said.