World Trade Organization Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala recently paid a visit to President Bola Tinubu, where she commended the president’s efforts in stabilizing the Nigerian economy. According to Okonjo-Iweala, Tinubu’s reforms have been in the right direction, but there’s still a need to focus on growing the economy. The WTO DG’s comments came during a meeting where she briefed President Tinubu on the Women Exporters Fund, designed to support 146 Nigerian businesswomen.
The Women Exporters in the Digital Economy (WEIDE) Fund aims to empower women-owned enterprises in the digital space, helping them scale up their businesses. This initiative is part of Nigeria’s successful bid for the International Trade Centre’s Women Exporters Fund. Okonjo-Iweala’s visit to President Tinubu also highlighted the importance of long-term investment opportunities in Nigeria, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry.
During her meeting with President Tinubu, Okonjo-Iweala emphasized the need for investments that can create jobs and stimulate economic growth. She noted that the WTO is already working with Nigerian women who own small and medium enterprises to upgrade the quality of their products and increase their international market reach. This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the economy and help alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.
Okonjo-Iweala’s visit focused on discussing ways to support Nigerians, particularly youths and women, who are most vulnerable to economic hardship. She highlighted the importance of community and grassroots programs that can create jobs and provide opportunities for young people. The WTO DG’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s economic growth and development is evident in her efforts to engage with the government and explore ways to address the country’s economic challenges.
The meeting between Okonjo-Iweala and President Tinubu demonstrates the WTO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s economic development. With the Women Exporters Fund and other initiatives, Nigeria is poised to unlock its economic potential and create opportunities for its citizens. As Okonjo-Iweala noted, “It’s good to see you,” reflecting the positive nature of the meeting and the shared goal of promoting economic growth and development in Nigeria.
