Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Reappointed as WTO Director-General for Second Term
The World Trade Organization (WTO) has reappointed Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as its Director-General for a second four-year term, effective September 1, 2025. This decision was made by consensus during a special General Council meeting held on November 28-29, 2024.
The General Council of the WTO stated that the reappointment reflects broad recognition of Okonjo-Iweala’s exceptional leadership and strategic vision for the future of the WTO.
“The General Council commends Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for her outstanding leadership during her first term. Amid significant global economic challenges, she strengthened the WTO’s ability to support its members and set a forward-looking agenda for the organization,” the Council said.
The reappointment process, initiated on October 8, 2024, was overseen by Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, Chair of the General Council. With no additional nominations submitted by the November 8 deadline, Okonjo-Iweala stood as the sole candidate.
During her presentation at the General Council Meeting slated for 28th and 29th November, Okonjo-Iweala outlined her vision for the WTO’s future. This was followed by a Q&A session with members. The Council formally endorsed her reappointment by consensus.
“The process was conducted in a fully open and transparent manner, adhering to the WTO’s ‘Procedures for the Appointment of Directors-General’ (WT/L/509),” the WTO stated. “With no additional nominations submitted by the November 8 deadline, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala stood as the sole candidate.”
Okonjo-Iweala’s first term as Director-General began on March 1, 2021, and will conclude on August 31, 2025.
