WTO reappoints Okonjo-Iweala as DG for 2nd term
Joseph Irikefe
The General Council of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) has reappointed Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, as Director-General for a second four-year term, set to begin on September 1, 2025.
Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment was a consensus agreement by the General Council of the World Trade Organisation, which the council said is a reflection of broad recognition of her exceptional leadership and strategic vision for the future of the WTO.
The WTO in a statement issued on Friday where it announced Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment said that the reappointment process, initiated on October 8, 2024, was overseen by Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, Chair of the General Council.
The statement noted that with no additional nominations submitted by the November 8 deadline, 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, Okonjo-Iweala outlined her forward-looking vision for the WTO.
The statement noted that following her presentation and a question and answer session with members, the Council formally endorsed her reappointment by consensus.
Ambassador 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 organisation.
“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.”
He added, “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 organisation continues to advance a resilient, rules-based, and equitable global trading system.”
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala first assumed office as Director-General on March 1, 2021, becoming the first woman and first African to lead the WTO.
Her first term concludes on August 31, 2025. Her reappointment highlights the strong support for her efforts to enhance the WTO’s relevance and capacity in addressing the evolving challenges of global trade.