Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote has expressed his support for former finance minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as the ideal candidate to lead the World Trade Organisation (WTO).
In a Twitter thread on Tuesday, Dangote said Mrs Okonjo-Iweala has the necessary skills needed in these trying times to lead the organisation.
“In these challenging times, the WTO needs the renowned skills and tested experience of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala to lead the organisation through identified obstacles and strengthen its position as the prime facilitator of international trade,” he wrote.
The chairman of Dangote Group said there is no one better suited for the task than his compatriot.
“A vote for her by all is a step in the right direction. I fully endorse the candidature of Okonjo-Iweala to lead the WTO,” he added.
Reacting to the endorsement, Okonjo-Iweala wrote: “Thank you Aliko my Brother for these wonderful words. As a globally acclaimed Businessman your knowledge about WTO and your confidence in my ability to serve is much appreciated.”
Okonjo-Iweala, 66, is vying for the position recently vacated by Brazil’s Roberto Azevedo.
The new WTO chief will be tasked with managing the trade war between China and the United States, initiate reforms in the face of rising protectionism and steer the world to new trade pastures in the face of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
