Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s remarks on her re-election as WTO director-general
The Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has described her re-election on Friday as a privilege to continue serving and achieving impactful results.
According to reports, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala was re-elected unopposed, maintaining her historic status as the first Black person and the first Black woman to be elected and re-elected as WTO Director-General.
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In her acceptance speech for her second term, which begins on September 1, 2025, she pledged to deliver tangible outcomes that would enhance the lives of people worldwide.
It read: “I am deeply honoured by the trust and support of the WTO General Council and its 166 Members. It is a privilege to continue serving as Director-General for a second four-year term.
“In recent years, the WTO has played a vital role in helping Members navigate pressing global challenges, including the pandemic, conflict, and heightened geopolitical tensions. I commend Members for their hard work and determination in achieving progress despite unprecedented levels of uncertainty and rapid economic shifts.
“As we look ahead, I remain firmly committed to delivering results that matter—results that ultimately improve the lives of people around the world. By promoting trade as a driver of economic growth and resilience, the WTO will continue to provide a collaborative platform for Members to address shared global challenges.
“I am deeply committed to working alongside the talented and dedicated staff of the WTO to build a more inclusive, equitable, and rules-based multilateral trading system that benefits all.“