The General Council of the World Trade Organization (WTO) has reappointed Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as its Director-General for a second four-year term. Her new tenure will commence on September 1, 2025, following the conclusion of her current term on August 31, 2025.
In a statement issued by the WTO on Friday, Okonjo-Iweala expressed her gratitude to the organization’s 166 member nations for their trust and support.
“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,” Okonjo-Iweala stated.
Reflecting on her first term, she highlighted the WTO’s pivotal role in addressing global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts, and 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. I commend Members for their hard work and determination in achieving progress despite unprecedented levels of uncertainty and rapid economic shifts,” she remarked.
Okonjo-Iweala pledged to continue advancing trade as a tool for economic growth and resilience while strengthening the multilateral trading system.
“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 said.
She emphasized her dedication to fostering a more inclusive, equitable, and rules-based multilateral trading 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.
Okonjo-Iweala, a former Nigerian Finance Minister, made history in 2021 as the first African and the first woman to lead the WTO, marking a significant milestone in global trade governance.
