The General Council of the World Trade Organization (WTO) has agreed by consensus to reappoint Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as Director-General for a second four-year term, set to begin on 1 September 2025. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala first assumed office as Director-General on 1 March 2021., her first term concludes on 31 August 2025.
In a statement today, Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, Chair of the General Council, said that the Council’s decision reflects broad recognition of her exceptional leadership and strategic vision for the future of the WTO.
He said : ” The reappointment process, initiated on 8 October 2024, was overseen by no additional nominations submitted by the 8 November deadline, and therefore Dr Okonjo-Iweala stood as the sole candidate.
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).
During a special General Council meeting on 28-29 November 2024, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala outlined her forward-looking vision for the WTO.
Following her presentation and a Q&A session with members, the Council formally endorsed her reappointment by consensus.
Ambassador Ølberg praised her achievements, stating: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.
Her leadership was instrumental in securing meaningful outcomes at pivotal moments, including the 12th and 13th Ministerial Conferences (MC12 and MC13), where major milestones were achieved.”