58 nations back Okonjo-Iweala for a second term as DG of WTO
58 of the 164 member states in the World Trade Organization (WTO) have declared their support for the re-election of Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as Director-General for another term.
The African Group of the World Trade Organization (WTO) proposed her re-election at the WTO’s General Council meeting yesterday, where representatives gathered to deliberate on the future leadership of the organization.
A statement released by Adebayo Thomas, Director of Press and Public Relations at Nigeria’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, confirmed the proposal from the African Group. The proposal also intends to speed up the process of officially appointing her to that position.
Ambassador Abdulhamid Adamu, Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the WTO, underscored the widespread support for Dr. Okonjo-Iweala during the council meeting.
“And all members pointed to all the efforts and qualities of Okonjo-Iweala and her contributions to the organisation which enhanced a lot of progress and development.”
“They all affirmed that she deserves to be reappointed as the director-general,” he said
Adamu highlighted that nearly 58 member nations voiced their support for the proposal, signalling a strong consensus among WTO members. Following the endorsement, the Chair of the WTO’s General Council has been given the responsibility to quickly begin discussions with relevant parties to officially establish the process for appointing Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as Director-General.
In response to the overwhelming support, Okonjo-Iweala (70) expressed gratitude to all WTO members for their endorsement. She indicated that she would consult with her family before formally accepting the nomination.
