The World Trade Organization (WTO) General Council has unanimously reappointed Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as Director-General for a second four-year term, starting on September 1, 2025.

The decision, made during a special meeting on November 28-29, 2024, highlighted her exceptional leadership and vision for the organization.

The reappointment process, initiated on 8 October 2024, was overseen by Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, Chair of the General Council.

With no additional nominations submitted by the 8 November deadline, Okonjo-Iweala stood as the sole candidate.

The process was conducted in a fully open and transparent manner, adhering to the WTO’s “Procedures for the Appointment of Directors-General” (WT/L/509).

During a special General Council meeting on 28-29 November 2024, Okonjo-Iweala outlined her forward-looking vision for the WTO.

Following her presentation and a Q&A session with members, the Council formally endorsed her reappointment by consensus.

Ambassador Ølberg praised Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s achievements, saying that  ‘The General Council commends Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for her outstanding leadership during her first term. Amid significant global economic challenges, she strengthened the WTO’s ability to support its members and set a forward-looking agenda for the organization. Her leadership was instrumental in securing meaningful outcomes at pivotal moments, including the 12th and 13th Ministerial Conferences (MC12 and MC13), where major milestones were achieved.’

‘As we look ahead, the Council fully supports Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s commitment to ensuring that the WTO remains responsive, inclusive, and results-driven. Her leadership will be critical as the organization continues to advance a resilient, rules-based, and equitable global trading system,’ he continued.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala took office as WTO Director-General on March 1, 2021, making history as the first woman and first African to lead the organization.

Her first term concludes on 31 August 2025. Her reappointment reflects widespread support for her efforts to strengthen the WTO’s relevance and capacity in addressing the evolving challenges of global trade.