WTO confirms Okonjo-Iweala as director-general
Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala will become the first woman and the first African to lead the WTO since its inception in 1995.
She takes over the institution, with its budget of $220m and staff strength of 650 people come March 1.
Fellow contender for the office, South Korea’s Yoo Myung-hee, had announced her withdrawal in a televised address on Friday.
An economist and former finance minister of Nigeria, Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala had gotten support from major WTO members, such as the European Union, China, Japan and Australia.
However, the United States, under the Trump administration, had favored Yoo, delaying the decision-making process since the selection of a new leader requires the agreement of its members.
The Geneva-based body has had a vacuum in its leadership since former DG Roberto Azevêdo stepped down earlier than his tenure required last August.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala spent 25 years at the World Bank as a development economist, rising to the position of managing director.
She was also the chair of the board of Gavi, helping in the global distribution of coronavirus vaccines.
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
States
Independence: NBA urges Nigerians to expect better future
The NBA said that ordinary Nigerians should be deriving benefit from the subsidy removal rather than hardship.
Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
Heading 3
El Niño: Experts warn of heat-related illnesses
She said prolonged heat could cause dehydration, heatstroke, cardiovascular strain and kidney complications.
Heading 4
Enugu community backs Tinubu, Mbah for 2027, seeks Nnamdi Kanu’s release
The traditional ruler urged political opponents to conduct their campaigns peacefully.
Education
UNILAG to test new students for drugs, substances in toxicology screening
UNILAG urged newly admitted students to visit its website for further information.
Heading 1
2027: DMI backs Tinubu’s reforms, forms alliance with president’s support group
She maintained that DMI’s ultimate mission was to promote stronger institutions.
Heading 4
ADC kicks off 2027 campaign in Imo, promises grassroots development
Mr Ihedioha explained that he associated with the party’s candidates because of their integrity.
States
Kebbi: Hassan-Augie wins fresh APC primary for Argungu/Augie constituency
The party said the constituency had 44,784 registered delegates, while 34,332 votes were cast in the election.
