Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and African to lead the World Trade Organization (WTO), has officially announced her intention to seek a second four-year term when her current mandate expires in August 2025.
Her spokesman, Ismaila Dieng, confirmed on Monday that Okonjo-Iweala, 70, had made the decision based on “the overwhelming and broad-based support expressed by members” of the WTO.
“We can confirm that Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has officially announced her intention to seek a second term as Director-General of the WTO,” Dieng said in a statement.
Okonjo-Iweala’s decision was formally communicated to WTO chair, Norwegian Ambassador Petter Olberg, and was met with strong backing from the WTO’s African Group, which proposed that the re-nomination process begin immediately. So far, no other candidates have come forward.
Having taken office in March 2021, Okonjo-Iweala has aimed to revitalize the 166-member organization, emphasizing collaboration and a results-driven approach.
A former foreign and finance minister of Nigeria, she has built a reputation for her ability to unite divergent parties and make decisive progress.
Her leadership has been pivotal in addressing key challenges in global trade, and her bid for a second term signals her commitment to continuing the work of strengthening the WTO’s role in a rapidly changing global economy.