Okonjo-Iweala: Jonathan deserves credit for picking brilliant minds, Buhari credit for governmental support

A deluge of commendations have gone the way of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s confirmation of appointment as first African and female appointee as Director-General of the World Trade Organisation; but the Editor’s pick is that of a former close aide of Okonjo-Iweala.

He took exception to Everyday.ng’s headline that said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) curiously took credit for her appointment.

His words: ” ‘Curiously’? How …? Jonathan deserves credit for appointing high quality ministers like NOI (Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala) and (Akinwumi) Adesina, Buhari deserves credit for providing governmental support for their international ambitions post government… chikena ?Nothing curious about it.”

The Senate President, Dr. Ahmad Lawan, applauded the quiet but dogged diplomacy of Nigeria and the unwavering commitment of President Muhammadu Buhari which, no doubt, contributed to the acknowledgement of the sterling credentials of Dr Okonjo-Iweala and her ultimate triumph in the prolonged contest for the  very important position, a statement by his spokesman, Mr. Ola Awoniyi, said.

“I heartily rejoice with Dr Okonjo-Iweala on this well-deserved victory.

“With her latest feat, the former Nigerian Minister of Finance and Managing Director of the World Bank has again brought honour to Nigeria, Africa and women everywhere,” Lawan says.

The Senate President urges the new Director-General to deploy her famed intellect, experience, energy and integrity in leading the WTO to promote global prosperity through fair trade.

Lawan says her task has been made even more onerous by the havoc that the Covid-19 pandemic has wreaked on economies across the world.

He prays for Almighty God to imbue her with good health and wisdom to succeed in the task.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar said: “Dr (Mrs) Ngozi Okonjo Iweala is a woman I know very well, because we worked at close quarters between 2003 and 2007, when she served in our administration in various capacities, most notably as Finance Minister.

“It is not hyperbole when I say that no one could be more qualified for the job of Director General of the World Trade Organisation than her, and I congratulate her for her success at being the first female and African DG of the WTO.

“She is an apostle of free trade and an astute manager of people and resources, and the world will be a much more prosperous place by her elevation to this enviable height.

“As the world prepares to emerge from the global pandemic of COVID19, the planet needs a steady hand at the wheel, to drive global trade, and rebuild from the devastation wrought by the virus. We would not need someone who thinks they can pull this off. We would need someone who has actually and serially pulled it off before. And that person has emerged.  

“Ngozi, Africa and Nigeria are proud of you and my family and I are full of joy at your victory. Go to Geneva and make us proud, as we know you will.

“Congratulations once again and may God bless your tenure.”

Her State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, threw the full weight of the Delta State Government behind her.

In a statement by his spokesman, he said: “On behalf of all Deltans, I join all Nigerians in congratulating one of our most renowned citizens, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, on her emergence as the next Director-General of the World Trade Organisation.

“Over the years, we have all followed your growth and celebrated your noteworthy achievements. This is why, as you begin your new role at the helm of the WTO, I want you to know that you have the unwavering support of both your home state and your country…

“I am excited to hear of the emergence of our illustrious daughter, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, as the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation.

“Your appointment is indeed, a testament to your competence and experience as a renowned economist and international development expert.

“You went through a very rigorous and competitive process to emerge as the new head at the WTO.

“On behalf of my family, the Government and people of Delta, I congratulate a worthy ambassador of Delta and Nigeria, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, on the recognition and appointment.

“As you take on this distinguishing assignment at the big global stage again, I pray and urge you to re-enact that which you have always done – bringing pride and honour to Delta and Nigeria.

“It is without doubt that your pedigree and impeccable footprints in monetary and economic administration in Nigeria and at the World Bank stood you out for this global assignment.

“As you continue in this remarkable trajectory, we wish you success as you mount this new saddle.”

The House of Representatives speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila, Deputy Senate President, federal lawmakers and a host of others lined up to applaud the latest appointment