Nigeria’s pride, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has been reappointed as the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) for a second term.
The announcement was made by the WTO on X (formerly Twitter) on the 29th of November, 2024, marking a moment of global recognition for her exceptional leadership.
Her second term is set to commence on the 1st of September, 2025.
The reappointment was formally endorsed during a special General Council meeting held on 28-29 November, where Dr. Okonjo-Iweala outlined her vision for the future of the organization.
Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, Chair of the General Council, praised her leadership, highlighting her achievements during her first term in steering the WTO through challenging global economic conditions.
“The General Council commends Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for her outstanding leadership during her first term,” Ambassador Ølberg said.
“Amid significant global economic challenges, she strengthened the WTO’s ability to support its members and set a forward-looking agenda for the organization.
“Her leadership was instrumental in securing meaningful outcomes at pivotal moments, including the 12th and 13th Ministerial Conferences (MC12 and MC13), where major milestones were achieved.”
He further stated, “As we look ahead, the Council fully supports Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s commitment to ensuring that the WTO remains responsive, inclusive, and results-driven.
“Her leadership will be critical as the organization continues to advance a resilient, rules-based, and equitable global trading system.”
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala, who first assumed office as the WTO’s Director-General in March 2021, becoming the first woman and first African to hold the position, expressed gratitude for the support of the WTO General Council following her reappointment.
“I am deeply honoured by the trust and support of the WTO General Council and its 166 Members. It is a privilege to continue serving as Director-General for a second four-year term,” Dr. Okonjo-Iweala said.
She acknowledged the challenges faced by WTO members in recent years, including the pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and global conflicts, and praised the efforts of WTO members in overcoming these issues.
“As we look ahead, I remain firmly committed to delivering results that matter—results that ultimately improve the lives of people around the world,” she continued.
“By promoting trade as a driver of economic growth and resilience, the WTO will continue to provide a collaborative platform for Members to address shared global challenges.”
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala reaffirmed her dedication to building a more inclusive, equitable, and rules-based global trading system.