WTO set to gain new chief, but deep issues remain SECTIONS Last Updated: Feb 15, 2021, 09:39 AM IST Share Synopsis Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, a Nigerian economist and former finance minister, is poised to become the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization. A key part of the organization for settling trade disputes, called the appellate body, remains crippled after the Trump administration blocked appointments of new personnel. WASHINGTON: Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, a Nigerian economist and former finance minister, is poised to become the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization, when the members of the global trade body meet Monday to consider her candidacy for director-general.