US at last clears Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for WTO DG job

The United States on Friday cleared Nigeria’s nominee, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, for appointment as Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). The US, accordingly, declared that the American government now supports Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Nigeria’s nominee for the Director General of the World Trade Organization.

Former US President, Donald Trump, had opposed the candidacy of Okonjo-Iweala, supported the South Korean Trade Minister, Yoo Myung-hee.

South Korea’s Trade Minister Ms Myung-hee, on Friday, after consultations, withdrew from the contest for the WTO top job.

The Office of the United States Trade Representative, in a statement on Friday declared:  “The United States takes note of today’s decision by the Republic of Korea’s Trade Minister Yoo Myung-hee to withdraw her candidacy for Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

“The Biden-Harris Administration is pleased to express its strong support for the candidacy of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as the next Director-General of the WTO.

“Dr. Okonjo-Iweala brings a wealth of knowledge in economics and international diplomacy from her 25 years with the World Bank and two terms as Nigerian Finance Minister.

“She is widely respected for her effective leadership and has proven experience managing a large international organization with a diverse membership.”

Dr. Okonjo-Iweala, accordingly, on Friday, expressed her gratitude to the US and Nigerians for their “unflinching support.”

“Grateful for the expression of support from the US today for DG @WTO. Congratulations to Madam Yoo of Rep. Korea for a hard-fought campaign.

“Thank You, President Muhammadu Buhari @MBuhari and all Nigerians for your unflinching support. Thank you, friends. Love to my family. Glory to God,” Okonjo-Iweala tweeted.