Thursday, October 8, 2026

Okonjo-Iweala appointed as WTO director-general for second term

The World Trade Organisation has confirmed the reappointment of Nigeria’s Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as its director-general for a second term.

• November 29, 2024
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala [Credit; Al Jazeera]

The World Trade Organisation has confirmed the reappointment of Nigeria’s Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as its director-general for a second term.

“The General Council of the World Trade Organization (WTO) has agreed by consensus to reappoint Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as Director-General for a second four-year term, set to begin on 1 September 2025,” the WTO said in a statement on Friday.

Accepting her reappointment, Mrs Okonjo-Iweala commended the council for backing her, promising to improve lives, promote trade and ensure global economic growth that will be beneficial to all.

“It is a privilege to continue serving as Director-General for a second four-year term. As we look ahead, I remain firmly committed to delivering results that matter—results that ultimately improve the lives of people around the world,” said Mr Okonjo-Iweala.

She added, “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.

“I am deeply committed to working alongside the talented and dedicated staff of the WTO to build a more inclusive, equitable, and rules-based multilateral trading system that benefits all.”

The WTO, which approved her reappointment during a special General Council meeting on November 28 and 29, 2024, said the decision reflects the broad recognition of her exceptional leadership and strategic vision for the future.

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