The World Trade Organisation (WTO) has announced the reappointment of Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as its director-general for a second term.
This was made known via the official X handle of the WTO on Friday.
The post reads, “The General Council has appointed Director-General @NOIweala for a second term, effective 1 September 2025. More details to follow.”
Recall that WTO had recently confirmed that Okonjo-Iweala, the current director-general, is the sole candidate for the position as her first term nears its conclusion.
58 countries had previously backed the reelection of the Word Trade Boss for a second term. She had also expressed willingness to serve a second four-year term.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s re-election makes her the first Black person to be elected and re-elected as the DG of the World Trade Organisation.
She gave an acceptance speech saying her re-election on Friday was a privilege to continue serving and delivering results. She also promised to deliver results that would improve the lives of people all over the world.
It read: “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.
“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.
“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.
“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.”
