Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala now DG, WTO
Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, one of Nigeria’s most outstanding renowned economists as well as former Minister of Finance has been named as the first female and first African head of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
By Ovie Edomi
Her appointment has been confirmed as Director General (DG) by the World Trade Organization (WTO) at a special general meeting
It would be recalled that the WTO director general job followed a selection process that included eight candidates from around the world.
The WTO is the intergovernmental organization that is concerned with the regulation of international trade between nations.
In a congratulatory message, President of the European Council (EC), Charles Michel said Okonjo-Iweala can count on the full support of the European Union (EU). In a tweet the President of the European Council, EU noted
“My warmest wishes to Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on your appointment as Director General of @wto. You bring a wealth of experience and expertise at a time when the WTO needs reform. Count on full support of the EU.” Earlier, the US under the present President had backed her candidacy for job.
The South South International gathered in a statement by the global trade body that the former Nigerian finance minister and World Bank veteran will take up her post on March 1.