Fifty-eight member states of the World Trade Organization (WTO) have endorsed the continuation of Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as Director-General for a second term.
This proposal, led by the African Group, was announced during a July 22 meeting of the WTO General Council, reflecting a broad consensus on the impressive leadership she has demonstrated since taking office on March 1, 2021.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s appointment as WTO Director-General marked a historic milestone.
She became the first woman and the first African to hold this prestigious position.
Her term is set to expire on August 31, 2025, but the recent groundswell of support suggests she might continue to steer the global trade body beyond this date.
At the General Council meeting, a diverse coalition of 58 WTO members voiced their backing for Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment.
They called for the reappointment process to begin promptly, praising her hard work and accomplishments.
“Everything that I’ve accomplished, we’ve accomplished together,” Okonjo-Iweala said, expressing her gratitude and indicating her favorable inclination towards the proposal.
She promised to announce her intentions soon, underscoring the seriousness with which she regards the members’ call.
Before her groundbreaking role at the WTO, Okonjo-Iweala had already built a formidable career.
She served twice as Nigeria’s Finance Minister, from 2003 to 2006 and from 2011 to 2015, and briefly as Foreign Minister in 2006, making her the first woman to hold both positions.
Her tenure as Finance Minister was marked by significant economic reforms and efforts to combat corruption.
She played a crucial role in Nigeria’s debt relief negotiations, which led to the country’s exit from the Paris Club of creditors.
Her international credentials are equally impressive.
Okonjo-Iweala had a 25-year career at the World Bank, where she rose to the position of Managing Director, Operations, the second-highest position at the institution.
In this role, she oversaw operations in Africa, South Asia, Europe, and Central Asia.
Her work at the World Bank earned her a reputation as a skilled negotiator and development economist, adept at managing complex global issues.
Among the reasons cited for the urgency in starting the reappointment process is the upcoming U.S. presidential election in November.
The outcome could influence international support dynamics, particularly if there is a shift in the U.S. administration.
During her initial appointment, the transition from the Trump administration to President Joe Biden’s administration played a pivotal role.
Biden’s support, along with that of all 27 EU member states, was instrumental in her selection as WTO Director-General.
In 2020, the race for the WTO Director-General saw Okonjo-Iweala and South Korean Trade Minister Yoo Myung-hee as the final contenders.
The Trump administration supported Yoo, which led to a prolonged selection process.
However, with Biden’s election, the U.S. shifted its support to Okonjo-Iweala, facilitating her appointment.
