Ngozie Okonjo-Iweala

“Full biograpny and CV (WTO site)”

““Nigeria does have a problem with corruption. And so do many other countries, including developed countries. I don’t like the fact that when people mention the name Nigeria, the next thing they say is corruption.””

“In the 73 years of GATT WTO, I am honoured to be First Woman and First African to lead. But now the real work begins. Ready to tackle the challenges of WTO. Forget Business as usual!”

“I believe that when you find problems, you should also find solutions.”

“I’m told, I’m like my father, and he was the most wonderful man. But I think he was gentler than me.”

“Don’t take a backward step. Don’t shy away from taking up space in the world. Don’t assume you are too junior or that people are too busy. Reach out and network.”

“Get anyone you know talking about gender stereotypes. These false assumptions cannot survive being held up to the light of day.”

“There is no right way to be a woman leader. Be true to yourself.”

“If you have a sense of purpose that drives you, then aim high and become a leader and make room as you go.”

“There is always guilt. Just make it work.”

“I’ve developed my own style. It’s a colourful one. It’s African, and it is me.”

““At present, these institutions have a combined balance sheet of about $70 billion, but our infrastructure needs alone exceed $200 billion annually. Instead of looking outward for financial support, we must strengthen our own institutions,””

““The biggest pension funds are in South Africa, followed by Nigeria, Kenya, Morocco, Botswana, and Namibia. These resources are hugely significant, and we need to find ways to tap into them,””

““Our focus should be on two key areas — attracting investment and mobilising domestic resources.””

““Africa really needs to change its mindset about access to aid. We should begin to see it as a thing of the past,””

““Diaspora investment is not just about capital; it’s about building ecosystems and reshaping Africa’s economic narrative. We are proud to create a platform where action-oriented conversations drive real change.””

““Events like this roundtable are vital platforms to foster collaboration, deepen trust, and unlock the entrepreneurial potential that exists both within Africa and among its global diaspora. It was an honor to join this important dialogue and help shape conversations that will drive long-term impact,””

““Even solving one problem or building one enterprise can have ripple effects across the continent. Everyone has a role to play in building Africa’s future,””

““Our critical minerals are in demand — but instead of giving them away raw, we must negotiate smartly, add value locally, create jobs, and become a true hub of global manufacturing and innovation"”

““Africa’s opportunity lies not in aid — but in adding value, building trust, and using our resources wisely,””