By The coast is now clear for Nigeria’s candidate for the office of the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, as the United States government endorsed her candidature for the job.
This development followed the withdrawal of Korea’s candidate, Yoo Myung-hee, from the race.
According to a statement from the office of the US Trade Representative, the Biden-Harris administration is pleased to support the candidacy of Okonjo-Iweala.
“The United States takes note of today’s decision by the Republic of Korea’s Trade Minister Yoo Myung-hee to withdraw her candidacy for Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO),” the statement read.
“The Biden-Harris Administration is pleased to express its strong support for the candidacy of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-lweala as the next Director General of the WTO.
“Dr. Okonjo-Iweala brings a wealth of knowledge in economics and international diplomacy from her 25 years with the World Bank and two terms as Nigerian Finance Minister.
“She is widely respected for her effective leadership and has proven experience managing a large international organization with a diverse membership.”
Recall the Donald Trump-led administration had blocked the candidature of the former managing director of the World Bank, despite the wide support she enjoys from top officials in the WTO.
This opposition halted the selection process because WTO decisions are reached based on consensus of all members.
Reacting to the latest endorsement from the United States, Okonjo-Iweala on Twitter thanked President Muhammadu Buhari and Nigerians for their support.
“Grateful for the expression of support from the US today for DG @WTO. Congratulations to Madam Yoo of Republic of Korea for a hard fought campaign.
“Thank You President Muhammadu Buhari @MBuhari & all Nigerians for your unflinching support. Thank you friends. Love to my family. Glory to God,” she tweeted.
The 66-year-old is set to become the first woman and first African to lead the organization in its 25-year history.
