The World Trade Organization (WTO) has unanimously reappointed Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as its Director General for a second term during a special meeting of the WTO’s General Council on Friday. Okonjo-Iweala, who made history in 2021 as the first woman and the first African to lead the 164-member organization, will continue to serve in this role until August 2029.
The reappointment decision has been met with widespread praise and support from world leaders, organizations, and key figures in the global economic sector. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu commended Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment, stating that the unanimous decision demonstrates the international community’s trust and confidence in her leadership to advance multilateral trade for sustainable global development.
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, also congratulated Okonjo-Iweala on her reappointment. Oborevwori described it as a testament to her competence and experience as a renowned economist and international development expert, while Kalu highlighted her outstanding leadership, dedication, and tireless efforts in advancing global trade reforms and promoting economic development.
The Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Patricia Scotland, expressed her desire to strengthen collaboration with the WTO under Okonjo-Iweala’s leadership, emphasizing the importance of advancing digital trade and promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth across the Commonwealth. The United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, David Lammy, echoed these sentiments, stating that the WTO is a key enabler for UK growth, development, and security, and that the UK will continue engaging with its members on important issues. Minister of State for Trade Policy, Douglas Alexander, praised Okonjo-Iweala’s strength of leadership and shared her vision that open and free trade can secure sustainable and inclusive growth and development.
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Secretary General John W.H. Denton commended Okonjo-Iweala’s immense leadership in championing multilateral cooperation through a particularly challenging period for world trade, not least the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. During the special meeting, Okonjo-Iweala outlined her forward-looking vision for the WTO, as the world continues to navigate the economic consequences of the pandemic and seeks to promote a more inclusive and sustainable global trade system.
As Okonjo-Iweala prepares to begin her second term in September 2025, the international community is confident that her proven track record of leadership, expertise, and dedication to advancing economic development and global cooperation will continue to drive the WTO forward in its mission to promote fair, inclusive, and equitable global trade practices. With the support of world leaders and organizations, Okonjo-Iweala is poised to lead the WTO through the challenges ahead and work towards a more prosperous future for all.
