President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on her unanimous reappointment as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO). The announcement was made in a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on November 29, 2025.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala, a trailblazing economist and former Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, made history in 2021 as the first African and the first woman to lead the 164-member global trade body. Her first term as WTO Director-General, which began in March 2021, is set to end on August 31, 2025, with her second term commencing on September 1.
President Tinubu lauded Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment as a resounding vote of confidence from the international community in her exceptional leadership. He emphasized that her work at the WTO has positioned her as a driving force for advancing multilateral trade, ensuring it serves as a catalyst for sustainable global development.
“President Tinubu is delighted that Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s unanimous appointment for a second four-year term reflects the trust and confidence of the global community in her ability to lead the WTO effectively,” the statement read.
Tinubu further expressed optimism that her continued leadership would strengthen the WTO’s role as a cornerstone of inclusive economic growth and good governance worldwide.
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As a staunch advocate of equitable global trade, President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering support for the WTO under Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s leadership. He pledged that Nigeria, as a committed member of the WTO, ECOWAS, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), would continue to champion a fair and inclusive multilateral trading system.
The President highlighted Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s bold reforms and tireless efforts to foster global cooperation, assuring her of Nigeria’s steadfast backing as she embarks on her second term.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s tenure at the WTO has been marked by her relentless dedication to addressing global trade inequalities, promoting sustainability, and fostering international collaboration. Her reappointment not only affirmed her unparalleled expertise but also solidified her position as a beacon of African excellence and innovation on the global stage.
As she prepares to lead the WTO for another four years, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s vision for a more inclusive and equitable global trade system offers hope for sustainable development and economic progress worldwide.
