Nigeria’s Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has emerged as the sole candidate for a second term as Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). This development solidifies her standing as a leading figure in global trade, following her historic appointment in February 2021 as the first woman and African to head the organization.
Okonjo-Iweala Confirmed for Second Term
The WTO announced that Okonjo-Iweala had agreed to serve a second four-year term. The nomination period for the Director-General position closed on 8 November, with no additional candidates put forward. “Nominations for Director-General closed; Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala confirmed as sole candidate,” the WTO stated in an official release.
Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, Chair of the General Council, informed WTO members that Okonjo-Iweala is the only candidate for the role, reaffirming her commitment in a letter dated 16 September. The appointment process for the next WTO Director-General began on 8 October, with member nations given until 8 November to submit nominations.
Next Steps in the WTO Appointment Process
The WTO noted that the General Council Chair would outline the subsequent stages of the process soon. “The process was led by the General Council Chair in accordance with the WTO’s Procedures for the Appointment of Directors-General,” the organization explained. Okonjo-Iweala’s current term is set to end on 31 August 2025, and her potential second term would extend her leadership at a crucial time for global trade.
Okonjo-Iweala’s Achievements as WTO Director-General
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala became the WTO Director-General on 15 February 2021, making history as the first African and first woman to hold the position. Her tenure has been marked by efforts to revive key trade discussions, including progress on fishery subsidies and revitalizing the WTO’s Appellate Body, which had been stalled for years.
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As Nigeria’s former finance minister (2003-2006 and 2011-2015) and briefly its first female foreign minister in 2006, Okonjo-Iweala has earned a reputation as a trailblazer. Despite initial skepticism about her lack of direct experience as a trade minister, she has demonstrated strong leadership and deep expertise in international economic policy.
The Road Ahead for Okonjo-Iweala
Okonjo-Iweala’s confirmation as the sole candidate for a second term signals strong support from the WTO member states. Her renewed leadership is expected to focus on tackling ongoing challenges in global trade, addressing protectionism, and ensuring the organization remains a relevant player in the evolving economic landscape.
This news positions her as a key figure in shaping global trade policies, and her second term would provide continuity for the reforms she has championed since taking office in 2021.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s journey from Nigeria’s finance minister to the helm of the World Trade Organisation is a testament to her expertise and determination.
As the WTO Director-General sole candidate for a second term, she stands poised to continue her impactful work, navigating the complex global trade environment with her trademark tenacity and vision.
