Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization (WTO), is set to secure a second term as director-general after no challengers emerged by the nomination deadline.
The WTO chair, Norwegian Ambassador Petter Olberg, confirmed on Saturday that Okonjo-Iweala, who announced her intent to run again in September, is the sole candidate for the role.
The 70-year-old Nigerian economist and former minister of finance and foreign affairs was appointed as WTO director-general in March 2021.
Her appointment faced delays due to a veto from then-US President Donald Trump, who supported a South Korean candidate, before President Joe Biden’s administration ultimately cleared the path for her leadership.
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Okonjo-Iweala’s tenure has focused on reinvigorating the WTO, a 166-member organization often criticized for its sluggish decision-making.
She has garnered a reputation as a pragmatic leader capable of bridging divides and fostering consensus in the WTO’s challenging multilateral environment. Her current term ends in August 2025.
Known for her determination to drive reform, Okonjo-Iweala continues to seek practical solutions to global trade issues and promote inclusive growth, stressing the WTO’s role in addressing economic disparities.
