By Joke Kujenay
DR. NGOZI Okonjo-Iweala has been reappointed as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) for a second term, with her current tenure set to end in August 2025.
This reappointment, effective from September 1, 2025, follows a consensus decision by the WTO’s 164 members during a special closed-door session of the General Council on Friday.
Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and the first African to lead the WTO, was the sole candidate for the position.
African nations advocated for an accelerated reappointment process, citing concerns about potential opposition from the U.S. under a possible Donald Trump administration.
During his first term, Trump blocked her initial appointment for months, undermined the WTO’s dispute settlement appeal system, and threatened U.S. withdrawal from the organization.
Her reappointment comes amid significant global trade tensions, with fears of renewed trade wars as Trump signals intentions to impose tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico should he return to office.
Analysts warn this could exacerbate challenges for the WTO, already under strain from members disregarding trade rules to prioritize national policies.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu sends congratulations Okonjo-Iweala on her unanimous re-election, describing it as a testament to her leadership and dedication to advancing global trade for sustainable development.
Tinubu assured her of Nigeria’s continued support in driving equitable and inclusive trade practices.
Okonjo-Iweala’s upcoming term will focus on reforming the WTO, particularly its paralyzed dispute settlement mechanism, while addressing emerging trade complexities like climate change and health.
Experts emphasize that while the WTO faces external pressures, its challenges are also rooted in broader shifts in global trade dynamics.
The renewed mandate ascertains the international community’s confidence in Okonjo-Iweala to steer the WTO through its precarious phase, ensuring its relevance in fostering multilateral cooperation.
