Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Confirms Bid for Second Term

World Trade Organization (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has officially announced her intention to seek a second four-year term, aiming to continue her work on critical global trade issues left unresolved during her first term.

Okonjo-Iweala, who made history as the WTO’s first female and African leader in 2021, expressed her ambition for a second term to build on the progress she has achieved. Her current tenure is scheduled to end on August 31, 2025.

In her statement on Monday, September 16, Okonjo-Iweala confirmed that she would pursue another term to “be part of this chapter of the WTO story,” and emphasized her readiness to compete for the position. She noted that her focus in a potential second term would be on “delivering” on several key priorities.

Among her objectives are completing negotiations to end harmful fisheries subsidies, advancing global agricultural trade discussions, reforming the WTO’s dispute resolution system, and fostering initiatives to cut carbon emissions in international trade. “For my second term, I intend to focus on delivering,” she said, highlighting unfinished business that remains critical to the WTO’s mission.

Okonjo-Iweala has until the end of November to formally submit her candidacy, but support for her second term—especially from African nations—has been building since July. This early momentum aims to secure her second term before the upcoming U.S. presidential election, as current President Joe Biden has opted out of the race. According to the WTO’s consensus rules, Okonjo-Iweala could be reappointed unopposed if no other candidates step forward and if member nations are in agreement.

This reappointment process contrasts with her initial appointment in 2020, which faced opposition from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who blocked her candidacy. She eventually gained support from the U.S. under President Biden’s administration in 2021.

When asked about a potential second term under a renewed Trump administration, Okonjo-Iweala replied, “I don’t focus on that because I have no control,” reflecting her commitment to her work despite political uncertainties.

Send Us A Press Statement Advertise With Us Contact Us

 And For More Nigerian News Visit GWG.NG