WTO appoints Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for a second term

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been reappointed for a second term as Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

The reappointment process, according to a statement by WTO initiated on 8 October 2024, and was overseen by Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, Chair of the General Council. With no additional nominations submitted by the 8 November deadline, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala stood as the sole candidate. According to the statement, the process was conducted in a fully open and transparent manner, adhering to the WTO’s Procedures for the Appointment of Directors-General.

Dr. Okonjo-Iweala first assumed office as Director-General on 1 March 2021, becoming the first woman and first African to lead the WTO.

Her first term concludes on 31 August 2025. Her reappointment highlights the strong support for her efforts to enhance the WTO’s relevance and capacity in addressing the evolving challenges of global trade.