The General Council of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) has reappointed Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for a second term as its Director-General.
Okonjo-Iweala’s new four-year tenure is set to commence on September 1, 2025.
In a statement issued on Friday, she thanked the WTO’s 166-member nations for their continued trust and support.
She said: “I am deeply honoured by the trust and support of the WTO General Council and its 166 members. It is a privilege to continue serving as Director-General for a second four-year term.”
As she looks back on her first term, the former Nigerian minister of finance emphasized the vital role the WTO played in tackling pressing global issues, including the COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts, and geopolitical tensions.
She said: “In recent years, the WTO has played a vital role in helping members navigate pressing global challenges, including the pandemic, conflict, and heightened geopolitical tensions.
“I commend Members for their hard work and determination in achieving progress despite unprecedented levels of uncertainty and rapid economic shifts.
“As we look ahead, I remain firmly committed to delivering results that matter—results that ultimately improve the lives of people around the world.
“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.”
Persecondnews recalls that Okonjo-Iweala was first appointed as the DG of the WTO on February 15, 2021, and assumed office on March 1, 2021, becoming the organization’s seventh Director-General.
Her reappointment process began on October 8, 2024, under the supervision of Amb. Petter Ølberg of Norway, Chair of the General Council.
Since no other nominations were submitted by the November 8 deadline, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala remained the sole candidate.
The entire process was conducted openly and transparently, following the WTO’s established procedures for appointing Directors-General.
During a two-day special General Council meeting on November 28-29, 2024, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala presented her innovative vision for the future of the WTO.
After a question-and-answer session with members, the Council unanimously endorsed her reappointment as Director-General by consensus.
Amb. Ølberg, who praised her achievements, said: “The General Council commends Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for her outstanding leadership during her first term.
“Amid significant global economic challenges, she strengthened the WTO’s ability to support its members and set a forward-looking agenda for the organization.
“Her leadership was instrumental in securing meaningful outcomes at pivotal moments, including the 12th and 13th Ministerial Conferences (MC12 and MC13), where major milestones were achieved.
“As we look ahead, the Council fully supports Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s commitment to ensuring that the WTO remains responsive, inclusive, and results-driven.
“Her leadership will be critical as the organization continues to advance a resilient, rules-based, and equitable global trading system.”
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