WTO Reappoints Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for Second Term as Director-General

The World Trade Organisation (WTO) General Council has unanimously reappointed Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for a second four-year term as Director-General, set to begin on 1 September 2025. This decision underscores her exceptional leadership during a tenure marked by significant global economic challenges and transformative outcomes for the organisation.

The reappointment process started on 8 October 2024 and was overseen by Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, Chair of the General Council. As no other nominations were received by the 8 November deadline, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala was the sole candidate for the position.

The selection followed the WTO’s established “Procedures for the Appointment of Directors-General” and was conducted in a fully transparent and open manner.

At a special General Council meeting held on 28–29 November 2024, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala presented her vision for the organisation’s future and participated in a Q&A session with WTO members. The Council then formally endorsed her reappointment.

Dr. Okonjo-Iweala expressed gratitude at her reappointment, saying, “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.

“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.”

Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, Chair of the General Council, praised Dr. Okonjo-Iweala for strengthening the WTO’s capacity and securing critical milestones during her first term. “Her leadership was instrumental in achieving meaningful outcomes at pivotal moments, including the 12th and 13th Ministerial Conferences,” Ølberg stated.

First appointed in 2021, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala is the first woman and African to lead the WTO. Her reappointment reflects strong global confidence in her vision to foster a more equitable, rules-based global trading system.

Ozioma Samuel-Ugwuezi

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