Cross River state governor, Professor Ben Ayade has congratulated former Nigeria’s Finance Minister, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala on her confirmation as the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, WTO.
A statement signed by Professor Ayade’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Christian Ita, described the new WTO DG as the “poster girl of unassailable attainments and a record breaker who has not only shattered a glass-ceiling but has continually proved her mettle and brought honour to the country”.
“We are extremely proud of one of our very best, our own dear Ngozi who has just emerged the first African, first woman and the first black Director General of WTO.
“As the Managing-Director of the World Bank, Finance Minister, Foreign Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr. OKonjo-Iweala brilliantly distinguished herself to the applause of her country men and women and to admiration of the world. It is not therefore, a surprise that the international community found her suitable for the exalted office of the WTO,” the statement quoted Ayade as saying.
The Cross River state governor expressed optimism that the state will benefit immensely from her new role.
“I have no doubt that her wealth of knowledge will be of huge benefit to Nigeria, particularly Cross River, and the world at large”, Ayade further said.