Nigerian government has again put it’s weight behind the candidature of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo- Iweala, as a measure of galvanizing regional and international support for her in the final race to lead the World Trade Organization (WTO). Mrs Iweala was on the verge of getting announced as the leader of the WTO when the American delegates opposed her unanimous nomination by the General Council.
This unexpected opposition from the Super Power nation necessitated shifting the process to 9th November 2020.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, the Ministry’s Spokesman, Mr. Ferdinad Nwonye, reiterated the federal government’s commitment to supporting Mrs. Iweala’s lofty aspiration to lead the WTO.
He further emphasized that her candidature has already secured a cross-regional backing, with exception of the United States that remains opposed to the consensus. He, therefore, stressed that, “Nigeria will continue to engage relevant stakeholders to ensure her aspiration to lead the WTO is realized.
On her part, Mrs. Iweala sounded happy about her success so far in the bid. In a statement posted on her verified social media timelines, she said she is still optimistic about scaling through, despite hiccups. “We are keeping the positivity going,” said Mrs. Iweala.
Recall that this is the second time in a row, within a year, that the United States is opposing candidates from Nigeria who aspire to lead major financial and trade institutions.
Nigeria’s Dr. Akinkumi faced similar opposition from US when he declared his intentions to go for a second term as the President of African Development Bank.
