President Bola Tinubu has expressed his full support for Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala following her re-election as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Her re-appointment, on Friday via a statement on the WTO’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, secures her second term starting September 1, 2025, after her first term concludes on August 31.

Tinubu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, praised Okonjo-Iweala’s leadership, noting her historic achievement as the first African and first woman to lead the WTO.

He emphasized that her re-election reflects the global trust placed in her ability to advance multilateral trade, foster economic growth, and promote international cooperation.“We remain committed to supporting her efforts to implement bold reforms and equitable global trade practices,” Tinubu said, adding that Nigeria, as a member of ECOWAS and the African Continental Free Trade Area, will continue to back the WTO’s mission for a fair and inclusive trading system.

Meanwhile, Peter Obi, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, also lauded Okonjo-Iweala’s accomplishments, calling her one of Nigeria’s most esteemed exports.

In his message, Obi celebrated her as a symbol of excellence and a role model for the younger generation, urging Nigerian leaders to follow her example of character, competence, and integrity.

In response to the trust shown by the WTO’s 166 member nations, Okonjo-Iweala expressed her deep gratitude, calling it a privilege to continue serving as Director-General.

Reflecting on her first term, she highlighted the WTO’s role in tackling global challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions.

Looking ahead, Okonjo-Iweala reiterated her commitment to using trade as a tool for global economic growth and resilience, while strengthening the multilateral trading system. She stressed that the WTO would remain a collaborative platform for addressing the world’s most pressing challenges.