Rural Women’s Growth Hindered by Lack of Electricity

Toun Sonaiya, the chair of Women Radio WFM 91.7, addressed the challenges faced by rural women in Nigeria during the second edition of Nigerian Women’s Day, held at the 70th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in New York. She emphasized that the lack of electricity and internet access significantly limits rural women's ability to contribute to national development.

Sonaiya identified several barriers, including poor healthcare, limited educational opportunities, and low representation of women in leadership positions. She called for support from the Nigerian diaspora and partnerships to empower women and strengthen communities.

Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim, the Minister of Women Affairs, introduced various initiatives aimed at supporting vulnerable groups, including the PowerHer774 program, which seeks to expand clean energy access to one million women across Nigeria. The event featured discussions on global leadership, peace, security, and the economic empowerment of women, with contributions from various leaders and organizations.