Buhari congratulates New WTO Director
President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria has joined number of well wishers across Africa and beyond to congratulate the country’s former Minister of Finance and Economy, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, on her election as Director General of the World Trade Organization.
Mr Buhari in his congratulatory message said the appointment of Dr. Okonjo-Iweala has brought joy and more honor to the country.
He said further that her track record of integrity, diligence and passion for development will continue to yield positive results and rewards to mankind.
The Nigerian government also appreciated all the regional groupings in the WTO for granting audience and support during and after the exercise.
Nigeria’s Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala was yesterday confirmed as the first woman and first African leader of the World Trade Organization.
Dr Iweala came back into the WTO leadership contest after the US President Joe Biden strongly supported her candidacy shortly after the only other remaining contender, South Korean Trade Minister Yoo Myung-hee, pulled out.
Meanwhile, Mrs Okonjo-Iweala, while speaking after her inauguration, said a key priority for her would be to work with members of the organization to quickly address the economic and health consequences brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
She posited again that the organization faces many challenges but working together can collectively make the WTO stronger, more agile and better adapted to the realities of today.
When she takes office on March 1, Mrs Okonjo-Iweala will become the first woman and the first African to be chosen as Director-General. Her term, although renewable, will expire on August 31, 2025.
By Hussein Jama
February 16, 2021
