Toun Okewale Sonaiya is a highly accomplished media personality, the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Women Radio 91.7 FM, the sole radio station in Nigeria that focuses on women and their families. Moreover, it is the only commercial radio station in Africa specifically tailored to the needs of women. With over three decades of active broadcast experience in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, Toun stands out as one of the most influential women in journalism in Nigeria, earning her a well-deserved place in the Nigerian Hall of Fame.
Toun is a fierce advocate for gender equity and has been pivotal in amplifying women’s voices and advocating for anti-corruption and accountability campaigns in Nigeria. As a UN Women Training of Trainers Consultant on Women’s Political Leadership, Toun has significantly contributed to empowering women in leadership roles. She is also a member of the High-Level Advisory Committee on Women’s Economic Empowerment and Gender in Nigeria, a United Nations Ambassador for Women, and a member of the African Women Leaders Network.
She has founded several initiatives to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment, including the Women in Radio Development (WINRAD) network which supports the career development of women working in radio, boasting 246 members. She also played a vital role in establishing the Women Radio Centre (WRC), the first female academy offering free full-board residential training to women in media. Under her leadership, Women Radio has trained Nigerian journalists on positive reportage of women in politics and conducted media engagements to increase the visibility of female politicians.
Toun’s accomplishments under her leadership include securing five additional radio licenses to operate in Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, organizing the annual Voice of Women (VOW) Conference & Awards, hosting interviews with prominent figures such as released Chibok girls and families affected by kidnapping incidents, and collaborating with international media outlets like the BBC on impactful documentaries.
Through the Women Radio platform, Toun continues to advocate for women’s inclusion in leadership positions, condemn violence against women and girls, promote economic empowerment, and push for law reforms to advance gender equity. Her dedication to empowering women and fostering positive change has left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s media landscape and beyond.
