Synopsis
Do you want to know more about the first woman and first African to head the World Trade Organization (WTO)? Meet Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, a woman whose resilience is so unyielding that even the Terminator would give her a nod of approval and say, “I’ll be back, but lend me some of your strength first.” There’s more to her you’ll discover in this article…like a lot.
Do you want to know more about the first woman and first African to head the World Trade Organization (WTO)? Meet Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, a woman whose resilience is so unyielding that even the Terminator would give her a nod of approval and say, “I’ll be back, but lend me some of your strength first.” There’s more to her you’ll discover in this article…like a lot.
Introduction
Meet Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, a phenomenal African-turned-global figure. You’d agree that people of all origins have their flaws and fortes, and so, this article focuses on the positive achievements of this incredible figure. A popular Nigerian proverb says, “Even if you dance in water, your enemies will still accuse you of causing dust.” With that in mind, read on to discover what an incredible figure Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is.
1. Who Is Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala?
2. What Makes Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala So Special?
3. What Does Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Care About?
4. What Are Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s Greatest Deeds?
5. What Has Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Faced as Challenges?
6. What Keeps Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Motivated?
7. Why Is Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Such a Role Model?
8. What Is Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Currently Working On?
9. What Could Slow Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Down?
10. What Can You Learn From Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala?
1.Who Is Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala?
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a Nigerian-American financial wizard, orchestrating economic and financial moves on the global stage.
Born on Jun 13, 1954, in Ogwashi-Ukwu, Delta State, Nigeria to Professor Chukwuka Okonjo, an “Obi” (king) of Ogwashi-Ukwu’s royal family, and Mrs. Kaneme Okonjo.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s early years of education started at Queen’s School Enugu, St. Anne’s School Ibadan, and International School, Ibadan—all in Nigeria.
She has a degree in A.B. in economics from Havard University (1976), and a Ph.D. in regional economics and development (1981) from MIT. Mama definitely meant business from the get-go.
Picture Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as a chef of Nigeria’s economic kitchen, armed with economic recipes, cooking, and dishing out the financial menu. Her economic tactics move with a rhythm that would make even Fela Kuti—the renowned pioneer of Juju music—dance to the beat. She’s not just an economist; she’s a godmother and superhero of budgets, spreadsheets—in fact, finances.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is married to a neurosurgeon—Ikemba Iweala—who hails from Umuahia, Abia State in Nigeria. Bet he’s super proud of who she’s become over time. Just saying…
The couple has four children, including Uzodinma Iweala, a renowned author.
Recall that the article earlier mentions Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as a “Nigeran-American”…more like a blend of Nigeria’s fufu and America’s hamburgers (lol).
That was on a lighter note, though. But, seriously, the dual citizenship is a major contributory factor to her global feat.
During Okonjo-Iweala’s campaign for the position of Director-General of the WTO, her U.S. citizenship became glaring to the public.
Because she spent decades working and studying in the US—and weaving herself into the American dream, she probably laid a solid foundation for stepping onto the stage at the WTO.
2. What Makes Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala So Special?
Describing what makes Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala so special is like trying to explain the taste of jollof rice. The taste is a mixture of flavors that have you craving for more. By the way, jollof rice is a typical West African dish with rice, tomatoes, chilies, onions, spices, and meat.
Globally, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala remains a distinctive figure, given the many hats she wears, from her economic acumen to her ability to rub elbows with statesmen and commoners alike.
Imagine her as the financial guru with the charisma of your favorite aunt whose smile can cast the brightest light upon the gloomiest balance sheet. But that’s just the tip of the ice bag. Call her the “queen of financial acrobatics,” you’re right. With her many years of experience, she has a reputation for turning economic challenges into opportunities. Maybe…just maybe, this is why she is globally recognized for being an impressive economist.
Another distinguishing factor about Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is her sense of fashion. When it comes to fashion, she doesn’t just dress; she slays, culturally.
Most of the time—if not always—you can find her in native African attire. It’s like she raided the wardrobe of a Yoruba goddess, especially when she’s in her Ankara outfit along with Gele.
Not to forget her global leadership skills. You might think you have a leadership strategy, but Ngozi has what you can term “leadership charm.”
As the Director-General of the World Trade Organization, she exhibits global leadership by addressing complex trade challenges and advocating for a fair international economic order.
So, what makes Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala so special? It is the unique blend of financial brilliance, fashion sense, and global leadership skill.
3. What Does Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Care About?
When it comes to the things Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala cares about, it is more than just balancing the books and negotiating international deals. You can tell, from all indications, that she drives a passionate commitment to several key issues.
First off, she cares so much about developing countries. Her heart is bigger than a pot of jollof rice at a Nigerian family reunion. She believes that trade can help developing countries achieve sustainable development and lift them out of poverty. Nigeria is one of the beneficiaries of this singular trait. For instance, today, she’s recognized as one of the key players in negotiating Nigeria’s debt relief from the Paris Club. You can refer to her as the Olowe of Ise of debt negotiation.
Next, is her love for fashion. She cares about looking fabulous in the African way. She cares about representing African attire. She does it so effortlessly that everyone understands. She probably thinks, “Why settle for a power suit when you can have a power suit with a matching Gele that steals the show?” This is just an assumption, by the way. (Note: Women in Nigeria and Africa wear Gele, a kind of headband).
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala also cares about women’s liberation and equality in society. During an interview, her words go as follows; “greater efforts should be made to include women-owned enterprises in the formal sector.” She is a member of the Global Advisory Council at Vital Voices Global Partnership (a non-profit organization that exists to empower women economically).
You can tell, from various indications, that she champions the course of women’s liberation.
4. What Are Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s Greatest Deeds?
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, a queen of economics and global financial mastery, has achieved so many feats. Her achievements are so grand that even Elon Musk might raise an eyebrow in admiration.
Her life is like a financial blockbuster script where she plays the lead actress role. This section provides you with some of Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s greatest deeds.
First off, she’s done incredibly well in relieving Nigeria of its $18 billion external debt owed to the Paris Club. Her impressive role, as the then Finance Minister, orchestrated the smooth negotiation and cancellation of 60% of the debt.
It’s more like she whispers sweet nothings into the ears of the financiers until they voluntarily wipe off Nigeria’s debt.
Who knows…she probably must have picked up a few tips from Kwesi Botchwey (a Ghanaian economist and former Finance Minister who led Ghana’s successful negotiations for debt relief in the 1980s).
Also, did you hear about her contributions to global health? She fights for vaccine access. She also sits on the boards of the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI), where she ensures the world is in a healthier condition.
She’s bent on building a world free of viruses. You can probably imagine Bill Gates giving her a virtual high-five from his tech-savvy home, for the job well done. Okay, okay, snap out of it…that was just an imagination. But, seriously, her immense contribution to global health still stands right before the global eyes.
Think about her 25-year career at the World Bank in Washington, D.C. This is a feat worth noting. During her time at the World Bank, she served as a development economist and later climbed to the No. 2 position of Managing Director of Operations. Some of her contributions, while at the World Bank, include supervising the World Bank’s $81 billion operational portfolio.
She played an incredible role in assisting low-income countries during the 2008-2009 food crisis.
She still receives recognition for her efforts during her time as the chairwoman of the IDA replenishment program in the World Bank.
She was instrumental in raising $49.3 billion in grants and low-interest credit for poor countries. You can tell that Ngozi is doing well for herself—building lasting legacies even after she’s retired from active service.
She’s not just rewriting the financial playbook; she’s carving history. She does it in the grand theater of global finance, as the player, director, and producer of her show.
5. What Has Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Faced as Challenges?
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has her share of challenges in life. Being a public figure, she is confronted with colossal challenges.
What does it feel like? Well, it’s like climbing the Zuma Rock with a yoke on your back, where you balance the weight of economic burdens on your shoulders while wearing your crown of determination.
To start with, consider the global health pandemic, which broke out during her campaign for the Director-General of WTO. It was a tough moment for her. As you delve into the pages of her life, you find courage. You find a woman who confronts challenges like a lioness shielding her curb.
Picture the 2008-2009 food crisis. You can see Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s demonstration of Oya’s (Yoruba warrior goddess) strength.
She is such a resilient force juggling economic crises. She believes challenges aren’t roadblocks; they are pitstops on the economic highway.
This is one challenge that keeps staring her in the face as memory brings back the past. You could tell that even the pyramids in Egypt came offering a sympathetic nod. You can hear them saying, “Ngozi, well done, girl, you’re building an economic pyramid with challenges.” By faith, consistency, resilience, and determination, she keeps climbing the mountains.
Other challenges you can find in Ngozi’s book of records include the management of a multinational portfolio and negotiating complex financial deals. Think of it as playing chess with the world’s economic titans. Every move is strategic so much so that even Chess Grandmaster Phiona Mutesi would tip her hat to it.
6. What Keeps Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Motivated?
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala wakes up with the spirit of a thousand African sunrises. Each ray whispers a beam of hope and triumph. Its force is so powerful that even Mount Kilimanjaro shivers.
What keeps her going? You ask.
It is the vision of a continent woven into the fabric of her determination, to move out of the “trenches.” This is seen in her many moves in continuous support for the “poor countries.”
Ngozi also stays motivated due to her inner drive for economic empowerment. You can smell the scent oozing from her global daily pursuits. Her motivation is like a mixture of Wakanda’s Vibranium and the rhythm of a Fela Kuti beat. Crazy, right?
As she tackles world economic challenges—at her already high level—she draws strength from the laughter of children playing in the streets. For her, winning is not just a dream—it’s a rhythm she dances to every day.
7. Why Is Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Such a Role Model?
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a role model to many—especially young people—for her exceptional leadership. Looking at her role at the World Bank, she rocks like a strategist on a grand chessboard. She guides the financial ships of the world with brilliance. Her leadership aura leaves you inspired to do exploits.
Think about Ngozi Okonji-Iweala’s diplomatic skill in negotiation when seeking inspiration. She is a muse to many who seek to improve their diplomatic skills in negotiation.
The $18 billion debt relief she was able to secure from the Paris Club proves this particular skill. You can say that she’s the reason the Mona Lisa is smiling. She’s also, why the “Leaning Tower of Pisa” straightens up a bit. Okay, that was on a lighter note. But seriously, her negotiation skills are profound.
If you’re a woman, Ngozi Okonji-Iweala’s life teaches you to see beyond the gender barrier. She’s a role model to women who aspire to do great things in life—to see beyond challenges. Even the Eiffel Tower looks at Ngozi and wonders if it’s tall enough to match her towering accomplishments. The likes of Chimamanda Adichie see Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as a source of inspiration for women’s liberation.
Finally, Ngozi is a role model to many for her economic global impact. She’s the Lucky Dube of financial rhythm, arranging economic symphonies.
Being a “guru” in economics, you can tell why she’s spent 25 years at the World Bank. Picture her playing the chess game with the world’s economic titans. Every move she makes is a checkmate. Even chess genius Phiona Mutesi would study in astonishment. So, if you’re looking for a role model, she’s right here with you.
8. What Is Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Currently Working On?
We’ve seen that Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a queen of global achievements. She’s attained several feats that have made it to the history book. Her feats aren’t just feats; they are ripples of prosperity. She’s making the world wealthier and wiser with economic reforms.
Even as the current Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), she’s got so much on her menu. From fostering global trade to resolving global economic disputes, to addressing challenges faced by member countries.
You’d tell, from her actions, that she’s a Messi, or Cristiano Ronaldo on the pitch of economics. She dribbles and juggles economic challenges at ease.
Currently, she’s working on “dispute settlement reform.” A recent publication on the WTO’s official website reveals deliberation on the issue. WTO members are almost finalizing talks on reforming dispute settlement rules. Soon, you’ll have a fully functional system.
9. What Could Slow Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Down?
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is almost unstoppable. But if you’re to imagine what could potentially slow her down, what would you suggest? It’s absurd, but let’s entertain the thought.
While Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has proven to have a spirit of resilience in the face of turbulence, she’s not immune to challenges. Even a “Mikano” generator occasionally screams “I’m tired.”
Just like every other human, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala may face health challenges. As she pursues global financial glory, she might get her “cape a little tangled.” But don’t see that as a crisis, it’s just a plot twist in her superhero script.
Except for a chronic illness, these occasional health issues have expirations.
Consider balancing personal and professional life as another challenge that could slow her down. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is not just a wife; she’s a mother and a grandmother. To create a balance, she needs the services of a personal assistant to ensure she has a harmonious schedule. Probably, she’s got that covered. But, still, that’s a probable factor that can slow her down.
An international crisis could be another factor that could slow Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala down. This is especially true when implementing her policies, especially among countries under the WTO. But the beautiful thing about her is that she always finds her way around challenges. She’s always been a game changer in the pitch of life.
In a world where technology is fast evolving, adaptation may slow her down. You know, a twentieth-century lioness blending into the twenty-first-century tech evolutions. Imagine a 69-year-old Ngozi dodging algorithmic arrows and surfing data waves…just imagine for a second.
Well, good thing we have something called “delegation.” She can relegate tech-related responsibilities to the “tech guys.” But what if there’s an emergency…what if? Well, probably, she’s got it sorted out. Probably, in her closet, she’s the Queen of the Code. Who knows?
10. What Can You Learn From Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala?
The life of our subject—Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala—is an embodiment of several lessons. Here are some of the lessons to learn from this iconic figure:
Firstly, you can learn to turn challenges into stepping stones. That was the same with Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. She has demonstrated, on several occasions, how to navigate challenges like a salsa dancer on the streets of Havana. When faced with the food crisis in 2008-2009, her resilience to challenges kept her going. She was able to navigate her path through success.
Similarly, you can learn to face challenges head on, and not run from them. Always bear in mind that challenges will eventually be a thing of the past. Challenges are like swallowing a coconut—you must trust yourself to swallow it. Just like a Nigerian proverb says, “He who swallows a complete coconut has absolute trust in his anus.” You can’t face challenges if you don’t believe in yourself.
You can also learn about the need for skill diversification. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is an embodiment of multiple skills. Her skills are so sharp, you can tell from all indications. If financial challenges were a game of darts, she’d hit the bull’s eye blindfolded. Robin Hood would be like, “What!!!”
Think of her leadership, and negotiation skills, as tools that have kept her in the face of relevance this far. Ngozi inspires you to manage the complexity of the human world in the leadership terrain.
Learn to build yourself, armed to make waves on the global stage. You can see that demonstrated by Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. It’s like starring in a movie where Lupita Nyong’o co-stars with you while Nelson Mandela is the director. That would be incredible right? You can start from where you are—from the local level, upward. She did it, and now she’s global.
Another lesson Ngozi teaches is one’s love for their culture. She proudly puts on her African regalia like a crown. You’d always see her in Nigeria’s native Ankara and a well-knitted Gele. One thing is clear from this trait: Value your roots, irrespective of your heights in life. Are you shy about where you come from? Learn from Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s unapologetic cultural dress sense. She puts on clothes made with woven traditions and adorned with the colors of unity. She doesn’t just embrace her roots; she hugs them so tightly that even trees would be jealous.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala teaches respect for all genders, with emphasis on women’s rights. If she were to author a book, it would be titled “Recipes for a Better World: Women’s Liberation.” She’s so committed to women’s rights so much so that even Chuck Norris would approvingly nod and say, “I wouldn’t want to mess with her.”
Also, her emphasis on women’s rights is so intense that even Wonder Woman is left “wondering.” Her ability to break gender stereotypes, and rise into global prominence in a male-dominated world is inspiring. She’s become a role model to many young women who aspire to do great things in life.
Learning the art of diplomacy in negotiation is another crucial lesson Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala teaches. Her negotiation skills are smoother than butter on a warm bread. She believes that you cannot solve violence with violence. While you are with her, you will understand the need for a peaceful negotiation. A Nigerian proverbs say, “It is only when a mosquito lands on your testicles that you realize, there is always a way to solve problems without violence.”
Pro Tips
This section covers two major areas. First, you’ll learn pro tips on how to research more about Ngozi Okonji-Iweala, including her economic and leadership skills. Second, you’ll learn pro tips on how to develop those skills.
To learn more about Ngozi Okonji-Iweala, including her economic and leadership skills:
- Read her publications. There, you’ll discover her mind, the way she thinks, her economic philosophy, experiences, and leadership principles. You can find these in books, articles, and reports written by her. Also, follow her social media pages for more recent publications. Do check out the World Bank’s and WTO’s websites from time to time for updates.
- Watch interviews and talks she features in. She’s a public figure; a lot of mass media would want to have her on their show. Pay attention to her perspective on economic and leadership issues. TED talks and panel discussions can also be beneficial to you.
- Join economic forums where people discuss issues about her. In addition, study her career trajectory and understand how she performs her roles. Visit the World Bank’s website and the WTO’s website for relevant data.
- Join her mentorship programs, if there are any. Places like that allow you to share in her experience. You’ll also get professional guidance on life, and career.
To learn pro tips on how to develop economic and leadership skills:
- Build a viable educational foundation in economics, finance, and leadership. Go to school, attend online classes, buy courses—do whatever it takes, legitimately, to garner the required knowledge.
- Don’t stop learning. Learning never ends. Times change, and information also expires. You need to continuously update your knowledge bank if you must stay relevant in the game.
- Build professional networks. In this age and time, networking is an asset. Leverage that. Connect with industry leaders, mentors, and peers, especially within your profession. Build relationships and grow with them. You’ll thank your future self for that.
- Learn to balance work and personal life. When you don’t develop this discipline during your formative years, it will be difficult in the long run. Someday, somehow, either the family or work life will suffer. Develop a routine that places priorities on things accordingly. That way, you save yourself any future trouble.
Summary
In the grand narration of Africa’s financial maestros, you’ll find Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. She’s the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization (WTO). Think of her as the “Eve” of the WTO, except that there’s no “Adam” in the picture.
Her incorrigible skills and resilience have put her not only in the spotlight in Nigeria and Africa, but also on a global scale. Her resilience is like an imaginary creature that chuckles in the face of adversity. If Albert Einstein were to be alive today, he would scribble equations trying to fathom Ngozi’s depth of economic wizardry.
She’s built quite a reputation for herself over the years. Her influence is so prominent that even the moon contemplates swapping places with her. Ngozi is not merely a leader; she’s the Gandalf of economics and international trade.
