World Trade Organisation Snubs Egypt, Accepts Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala's DG Nomination

The nomination of Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been accepted by the World Trade Organisation (WTO) despite protest from Egypt, requesting that Okonjo-Iweala shouldn't be accepted or recognised for the position of WTO's Director-General.

AllNews had reported that President Muhammadu Buhari substituted Nigeria's Yonok Frederick Agah for Okonjo-Iweala on June 4, 2020. The replacement was, however, frowned at by Egypt, stating that the deadline for the nomination had passed. Egypt told the African Union not to recognize Okonjo-Iweala's nomination.

According to the North African country, November 30, 2019, was when members of AU had to nominate candidates for the WTO DG's position, but Nigeria went ahead to substitute its candidate in June this year. Recall that Okonjo-Iweala had initially been tipped for the top position of the World Bank, but David Malpass emerged as President.

WTO Snubs Egypt

WTO, however, ignored Egypt's protest, stating that nominations are still open till July 8, 2020,

Nigeria, on 9 June 2020, nominated Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for the post of WTO Director-General to succeed the current Director-General, Mr. Roberto Azevêdo, who has announced he will step down on 31 August 2020.

According to the timetable announced by the Chair of the General Council, David Walker, the nomination period will close on 8 July 2020. Shortly after the nomination period has closed, candidates will be invited to meet with members at a special General Council meeting, present their views and take questions from the membership.”