Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Reappointed as WTO Director-General  

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

The World Trade Organization (WTO) General Council has officially reappointed Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for a second four-year term as Director-General, beginning September 1, 2025.

In a statement released by the WTO on Friday, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala expressed her gratitude for the trust and support shown by the organisation’s 166 member nations. “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 achievements during her first term, the former Nigerian finance minister highlighted the WTO’s critical role in addressing significant global challenges. She noted the organisation’s efforts in helping members navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, international conflicts, and growing 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,” Okonjo-Iweala remarked.

Looking ahead, she pledged to strengthen the multilateral trading system and champion trade as a tool for global economic resilience and growth. “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,” she stated.

Okonjo-Iweala also reaffirmed her dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable trade system. “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,” she added.

Making history in 2021 as the first woman and African to lead the WTO, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has remained a prominent advocate for fair and effective global trade policies. Her reappointment marks a continued commitment to these principles.