The African group at the World Trade Organization put forward a proposal during the General Council meeting to re-elect Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as the WTO’s Director-General.
Adebayo Thomas, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, announced in a statement that a proposal has been made for Ms. Okonjo-Iweala to be considered for another term as the WTO’s Director-General.
The proposal also aims to prompt the General Council Chair to begin the appointment process promptly.
Nigeria’s permanent representative to the WTO, Abdulhamid Adamu, noted that all members highlighted Okonjo-Iweala’s efforts and contributions, which have significantly advanced the organization.
Nearly 58 members from various regions voiced their support for her reappointment.
The members agreed that the General Council Chair should start the appointment process once the proposal is approved.
Ms. Okonjo-Iweala expressed her gratitude and mentioned that she would confirm her acceptance after consulting with her family.
What you should know
The African Group, comprising 44 African WTO member countries and nine observers, has asked WTO Chief Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala to seek a second term as the head of the global trade organization, according to a Reuters report.
The statement from the group emphasized the importance of starting the reappointment process early for the benefit of the organization.
Okonjo-Iweala assumed her role as the WTO’s Director-General on March 1, 2021, becoming the first woman and the first African to lead the organization. Her current term is set to conclude on August 31, 2025.
With over 40 years of experience in global finance, economics, and international development across multiple continents, Okonjo-Iweala has a distinguished background. She previously served as Nigeria’s Finance Minister twice (2003-2006 and 2011-2015) and briefly as Foreign Minister in 2006, making history as the first woman to hold both roles.