President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala following her unanimous re-election as Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) on Friday.
Okonjo-Iweala, a globally acclaimed development economist, made history in 2021 as the first African and the first woman to lead the WTO. Her second four-year term will commence on September 1, 2025, upon the expiration of her current tenure on August 31.
A Testament to Global Confidence
President Tinubu lauded Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment as a reflection of the international community’s trust in her leadership and ability to foster sustainable global trade.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed optimism about her continued impact:
“Her re-election underscores the WTO’s role as a critical pillar of inclusive global economic growth and governance. Nigeria, as a committed member of the WTO, ECOWAS, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), will continue to support the organization’s mission for a fair and equitable multilateral trading system.”
Nigeria’s Support for Bold Reforms
The President assured Dr. Okonjo-Iweala of Nigeria’s unwavering backing as she consolidates her reforms and efforts to promote equitable global trade practices.
“Her dedication to advancing international cooperation aligns with our shared vision for global development and fairness in trade,” Tinubu affirmed.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s historic leadership has earned global recognition for pushing reforms aimed at addressing pressing trade challenges and fostering inclusivity in the global economic system. Her second term promises to build on these strides for greater international trade harmony.