The Senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial District and leading governorship aspirant for the November 6, Anambra governorship election, Uche Ekwunife has described the emergence of Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as the first female and first African Director General of the World Trade Organization as a boost to the global and national visibility of Nigerian women.
In a congratulatory message on Monday, the Federal Lawmaker noted that the former Nigerian Finance Minister has through her expertise, sound and deep knowledge of the global economy earned the opportunity to head the world’s leading international trade body.
“I am personally excited over the emergence of my sister, Okonjo-Iweala as the DG of WTO. Her emergence as the first female head of the globally powerful trade organization manifests the fact that the barriers to the growth of Nigerian women are gradually being lifted through the courageous spirit of our women”.
“While one cannot take away the fact that our dear Okonjo-Iweala attained this very enviable height through her personal accomplishments and devotion to her profession, it is most elating, and of course record breaking that she achieved this celebrated feat as a woman, more so, a Nigerian woman”.
Ekwunife stated her belief that the brilliant and very resourceful Okonjo-Iweala will use her experience to reposition the organization, which involves 164 member countries to adapt to the international trade realities of today.
“With billions in sales and thousands of jobs depending on the decisions and policies of the global trade body, there could not have been a more capable hand to run the affairs of WTO other than the Former Managing Director of World Bank.”
Ekwunife also commended the member nations and the selection body for leading a fair and transparent selection process. She appreciated President Muhammadu Buhari for recognizing the potentials of Dr Okonjo-Iweala, nominating her for the Job, and throwing the weight of the Federal Government behind her, while praying to God to grant her the wisdom to deliver on her new Job