Just in: Okonjo-Iweala reappointed WTO DG for second term

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been reappointed as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) for a second term, extending her leadership of the global trade body.

The WTO announced the reappointment in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, confirming that her new term will commence on September 1, 2025.

Okonjo-Iweala, a Nigerian economist and former Finance Minister, made history in March 2021 as the first woman and the first African to lead the WTO.

Her first term was marked by significant challenges, including navigating the organization through the economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and addressing rising trade tensions between major economies such as the United States and China.

During her tenure, she emphasized reforming the WTO to make it more efficient and relevant in addressing contemporary trade issues.

Okonjo-Iweala played a key role in the WTO’s efforts to resolve disputes and promote equitable vaccine distribution through trade-related initiatives.

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Her reappointment underscores the confidence member states have in her leadership and vision for the organization. Okonjo-Iweala’s second term is expected to focus on modernizing the WTO’s rules to reflect the realities of digital trade, climate change, and geopolitical shifts.

Speaking about her first term, Okonjo-Iweala previously highlighted the need for multilateral cooperation in tackling global trade challenges. “The WTO must evolve to remain relevant in an increasingly interconnected and digital world,” she noted in a past statement.

Founded in 1995, the WTO is responsible for regulating international trade, resolving disputes, and fostering negotiations between its 164 member countries. The organization has faced criticism in recent years for being slow to address modern trade complexities, including the rise of e-commerce and protectionist policies.

Okonjo-Iweala’s leadership has been seen as a pivotal step in rejuvenating the WTO’s influence on the global stage. Her efforts to bridge divides among member states and push for inclusivity in trade have earned her widespread respect.

With her reappointment, Okonjo-Iweala is expected to lead efforts to overhaul the WTO’s dispute resolution system, which has been hamstrung since 2019 due to a lack of consensus on appointing appellate body members.

Additionally, she will likely continue advocating for fair trade practices and ensuring that developing countries have a stronger voice in global trade policy decisions.