By Olawale Lamina
A renowned Nigerian economist and international development expert, who is also the Director General of the World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has entered the ranks of the septuagenarian as she celebrated her 70th birthday on Thursday
Okonjo-Iweal made history as the first African and first woman to lead the WTO. An excited celebrant posted on X.com, showing her gratitude by saying that the attainment of the milestone was “one of the happiest days of my life.”
She said in her tweet that, “I don’t normally do personal tweets, but today is an exception! It has been one of the happiest days of my life – my 70th birthday! So much outpouring of love from everywhere!! I want to thank all WTO Ambassadors, WTO staff, friends and family!
“I’ve never received so many bouquets of flowers from all over the world, as I have today! Along with good wishes and prayers. I consider myself blessed to have a loving husband, family, friends and well-wishers! All Glory and Thanks to God!”
...President Tinubu felicitates with DG WTO
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s President,Bola Tinubu, on Thursday extended his congratulatory message to the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, on her 70th birthday.
The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, who conveyed President Tinubu’s message in a statement on Thursday said that the President rejoiced with the WTO leader and her family on the occasion.
“The President extols the former Minister of Finance for her service to the nation and efforts towards building resilient institutions.
“President Tinubu also commends the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation for being a worthy ambassador of Nigeria, exemplifying the grit, diligence, and brilliance that Nigerians are known for.
The celebrant was born on June 13, 1954, and had a distinguished career running into decades, marked by significant achievements at both national and international levels.
Okonjo-Iweala made history as the first woman and the first African to serve as the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, a position she assumed in March 2021.
She said is being appreciated for her groundbreaking contributions to global finance and economic policy in many parts of the world.
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