No Opposition As Okonjo-Iweala Pursues Second Term At WTO

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first African and woman to lead the World Trade Organization (WTO), faces no opposition in her bid for a second term as director-general, according to a statement by the WTO chair, Norwegian Ambassador Petter Olberg. The announcement, made Saturday, confirmed that no other nominations had been submitted by Friday’s deadline, leaving Okonjo-Iweala as the sole candidate for the position.

Okonjo-Iweala, 70, who took office in March 2021, initially faced delays due to opposition from then-U.S. President Donald Trump, who supported a South Korean contender. However, her appointment proceeded when President Joe Biden assumed office, clearing the path for her leadership at the WTO.

Throughout her term, Okonjo-Iweala has worked to revitalize the WTO, aiming to streamline processes and overcome bureaucratic challenges within the 164-member organization. Known for her pragmatic approach, the former Nigerian finance and foreign minister has sought to drive meaningful reforms and foster consensus among member nations.

With her current term set to end in August 2025, Okonjo-Iweala’s uncontested bid underscores strong support for her continued leadership in guiding the WTO through evolving global trade challenges.