Toun Sonaiya, the Chair of the Board of Directors of Women Radio WFM 91.7 in Nigeria, has highlighted significant challenges faced by rural women during her speech at the Nigerian Women’s Day held in New York. Sonaiya pointed out that the lack of access to electricity and the internet severely limits the ability of these women to participate in national development, consequently affecting their families and communities. The event, part of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, aimed to draw attention to issues faced by women and promote gender equality.

The conference was attended by various stakeholders, including Nigerian diplomats, gender advocates, and UN officials, indicating a global commitment to addressing gender inequalities. Sonaiya's remarks came during a session themed "31 Years of Progress, Resilience, Impact and Renewed Hope," demonstrating a reflective look at past achievements while acknowledging persistent challenges. The discussions were underpinned by the understanding that infrastructural inadequacies, such as access to reliable electricity and the internet, are not just local issues but speak to larger national and global discrepancies.

Sonaiya's concerns resonate beyond the event, calling for more deliberate efforts from government and civil society in improving infrastructure for rural communities. By improving access to critical resources, it is hoped that rural women can enhance their contributions to their families and the economy, thus paving the way for brighter futures. The emphasis on the role of technology and infrastructure is crucial, as these elements are fundamental for empowering women and achieving sustainable development in Nigeria and similar contexts.