Pascal Arogorn Ibe
Former Nigerian Finance Minister, Dr Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala , says she remains positive of becoming the first African and first female director-general of the World Trade Organisation despite ‘ hiccups ’ .
The ex – World Bank director said she felt humbled to have been declared the candidate with the largest votes amongst the 164 member states of the 25-year – old global trade organisation.
Okonjo -Iweala made this known in a tweet on Thursday.
She wrote, “ Happy for the success & continued progress of our @ wto DG bid. Very humbled to be declared the candidate with the largest , broadest support among members & most likely to attract consensus .
“ We move on to the next step on Nov 9, despite hiccups . We’ re keeping the positivity going!”
Many Nigerians had expressed delight when key WTO ambassadors led by New Zealand’ s Ambassador David Walker proposed Okonjo -Iweala as the best candidate for the job. But the United States delegation opposed the move, saying it supported South Korean Trade Minister Yoo Myung – hee instead .
Some Nigerians have since likened the US opposition to that encountered by African Development Bank chief , Akinwumi Adesina, who also faced intense hostility from Washington before his re -election .
The breakthrough of Adesina , has , however , been a source of hope for many who want Okonjo -Iweala to clinch the top job.
The troika has concluded the third round of consultations and its decision marks an important step paving the way for Okonjo – Iweala to become next DG of the organisation .
But the WTO’ s 164 member states still need to determine whether they will support her before their next General Council meeting on November 9.
Meanwhile , the Federal Government said it will continue to engage relevant stakeholders to ensure that the lofty aspiration of her candidate to lead the WTO is realised.
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