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The government of Nigeria has vowed to ensure that its candidate, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala emerges as the next Director-General of the World Trade Organization

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement said it will ensure the lofty aspirations of her candidate to lead the WTO is realized

This follows the United States rejection of Dr. Ngozi’s candidature citing lack of experience and procedural issues after she garnered 163 of the 164 votes by members of the trade organization

The former finance minister fell short of being declared the first African and female to be elected Director of the WTO

But Ferdinand Nwonye, spokesman for the ministry of foreign affairs, said Nigeria will continue to consult with stakeholders ahead of the WTO’s November 9 general council meeting.

“The ministry of foreign affairs wishes to inform that the third and final round of the selection process of the director-general of the World Trade Organization (WTO) was concluded On Tuesday, 27th

“The candidate from Nigeria, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has secured the support of the majority of the member countries but is yet to be declared and returned the winner.

“This is because apart from winning the election, all 164 member states of WTO were expected to adopt the winner by consensus; in accordance with the rule of procedure of the WTO.

“It is important to highlight that Dr. Okonjo-lweala has secured cross-regional backing with only the United States opposing the consensus.

Okonjo-Iweala oh her part was quick to observe that she will maintain a positive attitude despite the hiccups.

She posted on Twitter that “happy for the success and continued progress of our @wto DG bid. Very humbled to be declared the candidate with the largest, broadest support among members and most likely to attract consensus.”

She added; “we move on to the next step on November 9, despite hiccups. We’re keeping the positivity going!”