In a resounding show of support, 58 member states of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) have enthusiastically endorsed Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for a second term as Director-General.
This groundswell of approval follows a proposal from the African Group at the July 22 WTO General Council meeting, which praised Okonjo-Iweala’s exceptional leadership and achievements during her first term.
“The African Group requests that the current Director-General make herself available to serve a second term, and has proposed that the process of reappointing the Director-General should be started as soon as possible,” the statement read.
Okonjo-Iweala, who has made history as the first female and African to hold the position, expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support.
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“Everything that I’ve accomplished, we’ve accomplished together,” she said, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that has defined her tenure.
With her current term set to expire on August 31, 2025, Okonjo-Iweala is eligible for a second term, and the WTO membership is eager for her to continue her remarkable work.
As she considers the request, Okonjo-Iweala acknowledged the call of members, saying, “I take the call of members very seriously, and I am favourably inclined. I will get back to members very soon regarding my intentions.”
Throughout her illustrious career, Okonjo-Iweala has demonstrated unwavering dedication to global economic development, serving as Nigeria’s Finance Minister from 2003 to 2006 and from 2011 to 2015, and briefly as Foreign Minister in 2006.
Her 25-year tenure at the World Bank, where she rose to the position of Managing Director, Operations, has equipped her with the expertise and vision to navigate the complex landscape of global trade.
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