Why Okonjo-Iweala was reappointed WTO DG for second term

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala made history in 2021 as the first African and first woman to lead the 164-nation-member WTO and her reappointment for another four-year term commencing September 1, 2025, underscores the trust placed in her by the WTO’s 166-member nations. Global leaders, including Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, have lauded her leadership capabilities, emphasizing her role in promoting sustainable global development through trade

Her first term as the seventh director-general of the WTO will expired on Aug. 31, 2025, while the second term began on Sept.1, 2025.

 

WTO: African group votes Okonjo-Iweala for 2nd term

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s recent reappointment as Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) for a second term is a significant milestone in her distinguished career and reflects the high regard in which she is held globally. Her leadership is characterized by a blend of extensive experience, exceptional qualifications, and a commitment to advancing multilateral trade, making her a pivotal figure in global economic governance.

Extensive Experience

Okonjo-Iweala boasts over 30 years of experience in international development and economics. She served as a Managing Director at the World Bank, overseeing an operational portfolio worth $81 billion across various regions, including Africa and South Asia.

Her tenure at the World Bank included pivotal roles during financial crises, showcasing her ability to navigate complex economic challenges.

Proven Leadership

Her dual terms as Nigeria’s Finance Minister (2003-2006, 2011-2015) highlight her leadership in implementing significant economic reforms that stabilized Nigeria’s economy and enhanced fiscal transparency. Notably, she led negotiations that resulted in the cancellation of $30 billion of Nigeria’s debt by the Paris Club.

 

Collaborative Leadership

One of Okonjo-Iweala’s hallmark traits is her collaborative approach to leadership. She emphasizes building consensus among the WTO’s 164 member states, which is crucial given the organization’s reliance on collective decision-making. Her ability to engage with diverse stakeholders has fostered a more inclusive environment where member countries feel represented and heard. This is particularly important in an organization often criticized for perceived biases favoring developed nations over developing ones

 

Focus on Sustainable Development

Under her guidance, the WTO has increasingly aligned its policies with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Okonjo-Iweala has championed trade as a means to alleviate poverty and promote gender equity, advocating for policies that support marginalized communities. Her leadership reflects a commitment to ensuring that international trade benefits all, not just the most powerful nations

This focus on sustainability has led to discussions about how trade can contribute to climate action and environmental protection, addressing contemporary global issues head-on.

 

Navigating Geopolitical Tensions

Her unique background allows her to act as a neutral mediator between conflicting interests, particularly amid rising tensions between major economies like the U.S. and China. Okonjo-Iweala’s diplomatic skills have been instrumental in fostering dialogue and cooperation among member states, helping to ease tensions that could undermine multilateral trade efforts

Her African heritage positions her as an outsider to traditional power dynamics, enabling her to approach negotiations with an objective perspective.

 

Commitment to Global Health

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala played a crucial role in global health initiatives as co-chair of the G20 High Level Independent Panel on Financing for Pandemic Preparedness and as a founder of the COVAX Facility, which aims to ensure equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines for low- and middle-income countries.

 

4. Recognition and Awards

Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People and receiving recognition from Forbes as one of the Top 100 Most Powerful Women multiple times. In 2020, she was also honored as Forbes African of the Year

 

Advocacy for Inclusive Trade

Okonjo-Iweala is a strong advocate for using trade as a tool for poverty alleviation and economic inclusion. She emphasizes that globalization should benefit all segments of society, particularly those left behind by traditional economic system.

Her vision aligns with the WTO’s mission to foster equitable trade practices globally.

 

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment as WTO Director-General is not just a personal achievement but a testament to her exceptional qualifications and unwavering commitment to global economic stability and development. Her leadership is expected to continue fostering inclusive growth through trade while addressing pressing global challenges such as health crises and economic disparities. The international community looks forward to her continued influence in shaping a more equitable trading system over the next four years.