The first African and female Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, intends to seek a second four-year term.
Her current tenure, which began in March 2021, will expire in August 2025.
Okonjo-Iweala’s spokesman, Ismaila Dieng, confirmed her reappointment bid in a statement released on Monday.
“We can confirm that Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has officially announced her intention to seek a second term,” Dieng said.
He added that her decision was influenced by “the overwhelming and broad-based support expressed by members.”
The 70-year-old economist formally communicated her decision to WTO chair, Norwegian Ambassador Petter Olberg, during a meeting on Monday.
At the same session, the WTO’s African Group requested that Okonjo-Iweala be made available for a second term and proposed that the re-nomination process commence promptly.
Known for her reformist approach, Okonjo-Iweala has focused on revitalising the 166-member organisation.
Since assuming office, she has been credited with pushing for more efficiency and cooperation among WTO members in a bid to tackle global trade challenges.
As of now, no other candidates have announced their intention to run for the position.
