Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Reappointed As Director General Of World Trade Organisation

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been reappointed as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) for a second term.

The announcement was made on Friday, November 29, 2024, with her new term set to begin on September 1, 2025.

The WTO General Council reached a unanimous decision during its recent meeting, acknowledging Okonjo-Iweala’s exceptional leadership and strategic vision during her first term.

This reappointment highlights her significant contributions to advancing the organization’s goals amid global economic challenges.

The reappointment process, which began on October 8, 2024, was overseen by Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, Chair of the General Council.

The statement added, “With no additional nominations submitted by the November 8 deadline, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala stood as the sole candidate.

“The process was conducted in a fully open and transparent manner, adhering to the WTO’s ‘Procedures for the Appointment of Directors-General’ (WT/L/509).

“During a special General Council meeting on November 28-29, 2024, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala outlined her forward-looking vision for the WTO. Following her presentation and a Q&A session with members, the Council formally endorsed her reappointment by consensus.

“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.”

KanyiDaily recalls that Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala initially took office on March 1, 2021, becoming both the first woman and the first African to lead the WTO.

Her first term will conclude on August 31, 2025, before her second term begins the following day.