Breaking: Okonjo-Iweala set to lead WTO — Report

Nigeria’s Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is set to become the new director-general of the World Trade Organisation.

According to Reuters, a key group of WTO ambassadors proposed Okonjo-Iweala to lead the trade organisation on Wednesday, clearing a path for her to become the first woman and African to head the global watchdog in its 25-year history.

The official announcement is expected to be made by the WTO later today.

Daily Dispatch had earlier reported that the European Union backed the former Nigerian finance minister over Yoo Myung-hee of South Korea, who is Okonjo-Iweala’s sole remaining opponent in the race.

Efforts to reach Okonjo Iweala’s spokesperson, Paul Nwabuikwu, for comments proved abortive as his line rang out. He was also yet to respond to text messages sent to his line as of the time of filing this report.