By Abiola Olawale
Deluge of congratulatory messages has been posted around the globe to felicitate with the Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Nigeria’s former Minister of Finance who was officially named as the Director General (DG) of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Monday.
Her appointment was confirmed in a statement by the WTO Monday, following the General Council Meeting of the global trade body held virtually.
The confirmation of her appointment has drawn attention of many prominent individuals from Nigeria and around the world as congratulatory messages pour in for the first African and the first woman to head the WTO since inception in 1995.
President Muhammadu Buhari in his congratulatory message to Okonjo-Iweala said her appointment has brought joy and honour to Africa’s largest country.
“On behalf of the Federal Government and all Nigerians, I congratulate @NOIweala on her election as Director General of the World Trade Organisation, bringing joy and more honour to the country.
“I believe her track record of integrity, diligence and passion for development will continue to yield positive results and rewards to mankind, and that she will validate the global mandate of repositioning and strengthening the WTO for the greater good of all,” Buhari tweeted.
Also, Christine Lagarde, the President of the European Central Bank (ECB), in her congratulatory message on Twitter stated that she is confident that Okonjo-Iweala will be successful as the DG of the WTO.
The tweet reads, “Congratulations to my friend Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on becoming the first female Director-General of the @wto. I’ve known Ngozi for many years. Her strong will and determination will drive her to tirelessly promote free trade to the benefit of people worldwide.”
Earlier, President of the European Council (EC), Charles Michel said Okonjo-Iweala can count on the full support of the European Union (EU).
“My warmest wishes to Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala @NOIweala on your appointment as Director General of @wto. You bring a wealth of experience and expertise at a time when the WTO needs reform. Count on full support of the EU,” Michel tweeted
Similarly, Ahmed Lawan, the Senate President of Nigeria, in a statement, also congratulated his compatriot on attaining an height that has never be attained by a black person. The Senate President expressed delight in the emergency of Okonjo-Iweala as the DG.
The statement reads, “I heartily rejoice with Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on her emergence as the first African and first female Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO). I also congratulate Nigeria on the latest feat of its great daughter on the international stage and applaud President Muhammadu Buhari, whose unwavering commitment contributed to the acknowledgement of the sterling credentials of her and her ultimate triumph for the position. With her latest feat, the former Nigerian Minister of Finance and Managing Director of the World Bank has again brought honour to Nigeria, Africa and women everywhere. I pray for Almighty God to imbue her with good health and wisdom to succeed in the task just as I urge her to deploy her famed intellect, experience, energy and integrity in leading the WTO to promote global prosperity through fair trade.”
Additionally, Ifeanyi Okowa, the governor of Delta State, has also reacted in a statement released on Monday, congratulating and assuring Okonjo-Iweala of his unwavering support as she emerges as the DG.
The Statement reads, “On behalf of all Deltans, I join all Nigerians in congratulating one of our most renowned citizens, Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, on her emergence as the next Director-General of the World Trade Organisation. Over the years, we have all followed your growth and celebrated your noteworthy achievements. This is why, as you begin your new role at the helm of the WTO, I want you to know that you have the unwavering support of both your home state and your country!”
A former governor of Anambra, Peter Obi, described Okonjo-Iweala as a shinning star in his congratulatory statement.
His statement reads, “Dr. (Mrs) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala @NOIweala has always been a shinning star, not just in our country Nigeria, but across the world where her leadership impact has been felt. Her appointment for this lofty position as DG @WTO has not come as a surprise to those of us who know her well. I am definitely sure she will perform creditably in her new assignment.”
