Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Gets ECOWAS Endorsement for WTO Top Job

Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has received home and regional backing for the WTO top job of Director-General. News received this afternoon says she also got the endorsement of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS.

The Cable reports that the endorsement is contained in a document signed by Mahamadou Issoufou, Chair, ECOWAS Heads of States on Friday.

On his part, President Muhammadu Buhari gave his approval on behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the 4th of June.

ECOWAS has enjoined other African countries to support Okonjo-Iweala’s candidacy.

The regional body’s endorsement was confirmed in a letter by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and signed by Ferdinand Nwoye this afternoon.

World renowned economist often described as the “fearless reformer”, Okonjo-Iweala has been courted by many countries and world business groups. In all the assignments, the former World Bank Managing Director and ex Coordinating Minister of Nigeria’s Economy, has delivered beyond expectations.

The Nigerian born Development Economist today, gave insights into the role of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and what the world should expect of them.

In an Op-ed posted on her Twitter handle, 22nd June, she said that “World Trade Organisation has an irreplaceable role to play in transforming countries’ economic prospects and the lives of people around the world. 

Speaking further, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala added that “Many people regard it (WTO) as an ineffective policeman of an outdated rulebook that is unsuited for the challenges of the twenty-first-century global economy. And WTO members generally agree that the organisation urgently needs reforming in order to remain relevant.”

Many across the globe agree that the economic expert is most suited for the much desired turn-around by the WTO. Nigerians, Africans and indeed the world look forward to her mounting the saddle in the not too distant future.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala sits on the board of many organisations and blue-chip companies including Twitter. She is the Board Chair of GAVI and AU Special Envoy to Mobilise Financial Resources for the fight against COVID19.

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