The World Trade Organization’s General Council unanimously reappointed Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as Director-General for a second four-year term, commencing on September 1, 2025.

The decision, finalized on November 29, underscores widespread acknowledgment of her leadership and strategic direction for the global trade body.

The reappointment process, initiated on October 8, 2024, was chaired by Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway.

With no additional nominations submitted by the November 8 deadline, Okonjo-Iweala emerged as the sole candidate. The transparent process adhered to WTO’s appointment guidelines (WT/L/509).

During a special General Council meeting on November 28-29, Okonjo-Iweala presented her vision for the WTO’s future, followed by a question-and-answer session with members.
The Council subsequently endorsed her reappointment by consensus.

Ambassador Ølberg commended her first-term accomplishments, noting her key role in steering the WTO through significant global economic challenges and securing key outcomes at the 12th and 13th Ministerial Conferences.

Okonjo-Iweala, in her address to the Council on November 28, outlined her priorities for the next term, emphasizing the need for a resilient, rules-based global trade system that promotes inclusivity and equity.

Background

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala first assumed office as Director-General on 1 March 2021, becoming the first woman and first African to lead the WTO. Her first term concludes on 31 August 2025. Her reappointment highlights the strong support for her efforts to enhance the WTO’s relevance and capacity in addressing the evolving challenges of global trade.