Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been reappointed as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) for a second term. Her new four-year tenure will commence on September 1, 2025.
In an official statement released on Friday, Okonjo-Iweala expressed her gratitude to the WTO’s 166 member nations for their continued trust and support.
“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,” she said.
Reflecting on her first term, the former Nigerian finance minister highlighted the WTO’s pivotal role in addressing global challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts, and rising geopolitical tensions.
“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,” she remarked.
Okonjo-Iweala reaffirmed her commitment to leveraging trade as a tool for economic growth and resilience while strengthening the multilateral trading system.
“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,” the statement added.
In 2021, Okonjo-Iweala made history as the first woman and African to lead the WTO, setting a remarkable precedent for the global organization.
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