Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, a global icon and a source of pride for Nigeria, has expressed deep gratitude following her reappointment as Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Her heartfelt message, shared on Twitter, resonated across the world as she thanked the 166 WTO member nations for their unanimous support, while reaffirming her commitment to reforming global trade to meet modern challenges.
“Today, it is with humility and a great sense of honour that I thank each and every one of the 166 WTO members for the consensus they achieved in supporting my reappointment!” Dr. Okonjo-Iweala wrote. “Thank you for the wonderful words of recognition and support. I don’t take this lightly.”
The first woman and African to lead the WTO, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala acknowledged the pivotal role played by the organization’s Secretariat staff, whose dedication and hard work she described as indispensable. She pledged to continue collaborating with member states to address pressing global trade challenges and to push forward much-needed reforms.
“This is an enormous responsibility, and I will redouble my efforts to work with each and every member to try and deliver the results this organization needs, including the necessary reforms to make it fit for 21st-century challenges,” she continued. “We’ve done it before; we can do it again!”
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala took a moment to reflect on the personal support that has sustained her journey. She extended her gratitude to her family, the people of Nigeria, the African continent, and friends and colleagues worldwide, who flooded her with congratulatory messages.
“I am also grateful to my family, my country, to the Africa Region, and to all my friends and colleagues from all over the world who have reached out with hundreds of congratulatory messages. Thank you for the recognition!”
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment marks a significant moment, not just for Nigeria but for global governance, as she continues to lead efforts in transforming the WTO to tackle 21st-century economic and trade challenges. Her story is a testament to resilience, vision, and the power of diplomacy, inspiring millions worldwide and reinforcing Africa’s vital role in shaping global policies.
Her commitment to ensuring that the WTO delivers meaningful results signals her resolve to champion inclusivity, transparency, and innovation in global trade—a mission she carries with humility and an unwavering sense of purpose.
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