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WTO Members Push for Okonjo-Iweala’s Re-Election Bid

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WTO Members Push for Okonjo-Iweala's Re-Election Bid

Representatives from 52 countries in the World Trade Organization (WTO) have backed a suggestion, on July 22, 2024, from the African Group to begin choosing the next Director-General sooner and have encouraged the current Director-General, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, to be prepared for a second term.

As the African Group requested Okonjo-Iweala to prepare for a second term, they also suggested initiating the process for her reappointment without delay.

Members deliberated on the African Group’s request concerning the appointment of the Director-General. 

According to a statement by the World Trade Organization, the association announced this at a meeting of the WTO General Council.

Many of these members commended the former Nigerian Finance Minister for her dedication and accomplishments in her initial term.

In her reply to the endorsement by WTO members, Okonjo-Iweala expressed gratitude for their support.

“Everything that I’ve accomplished, we’ve accomplished together,” she stated.

The Director General added that she values the opinions of members greatly and is inclined to view them positively. 

She assured members that she would respond soon with her decision.

The Chair of the General Council, Petter Ølberg, from Norway, stated that he received complete, widespread, and robust endorsement. 

Support was expressed for the current Director-General’s willingness to make herself available for re-election. 

There was also an endorsement for initiating the process at the earliest opportunity.

The Chair announced plans to contact delegations in the upcoming days and weeks.

About Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

Okonjo-Iweala, born June 13, 1954, is a Nigerian-American economist and international development expert.

She holds a Ph.D. in Regional Economics and Development from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

READ ALSO:  Okonjo-Iweala seeks a more sustainable energy production

She has served as the Director-General of WTO since March 2021, becoming the first woman and African to hold this position.

Prior to her WTO role, Okonjo-Iweala held various high-profile positions, including two terms as Nigeria’s Finance Minister and briefly as Foreign Minister.

She has earned popularity for her work in economic reform, transparency, and advocacy for global health initiatives.

Her impact as the Director-General of WTO

As the Director-General of the organization, she has focused on several key areas and achieved notable milestones such as:
COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution: Okonjo-Iweala played a critical role in addressing the global distribution of COVID-19 vaccines.
She has been a vocal advocate for vaccine equity, pushing for increased production and distribution to developing countries.
Her efforts have included facilitating discussions to waive intellectual property rights for vaccines temporarily.
Trade Facilitation: She has been instrumental in promoting trade facilitation measures to ensure smoother and more efficient global trade processes.
This includes efforts to cut red tape and simplify customs procedures, which can help reduce the cost and time of trade, particularly for developing countries.
Environmental Sustainability: Okonjo-Iweala has emphasized the importance of integrating environmental sustainability into trade policies.
She has advocated for policies that support green technologies and sustainable development, thereby recognizing the role of trade in addressing climate change.
Inclusivity in Trade: A major focus of her tenure has been on making the global trading system more inclusive.
She has highlighted the need to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), women, and marginalized groups in gaining better access to global markets.
Reforming the WTO:Under her leadership, she has spearheaded efforts to reform the WTO.
Her aim is to make it more responsive and effective in addressing contemporary global trade challenges.
She has focused on improving the dispute resolution mechanism.
Additionally, she has updated trade rules to reflect the realities of the digital economy and other modern issues.
These achievements reflect her commitment to making the WTO a more effective and inclusive organization in addressing global trade challenges.
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Former deputy governor of Abia State joins Labour Party

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A former deputy Governor of Abia State, Ude Oko-Chukwu, has formally joined the Labour Party.

Chukwu, who served under former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, announced his defection on Saturday at his hometown in Nkporo, Ohafia Local Government Area.

“All Nkporo people are here today. The implication is that Nkporo is now in the Labour Party,” Chukwu declared.

He commended Governor Alex Otti’s leadership style, saying: “I decided to join you because you treat governance as a personal mission. You have done well. Today, we can proudly say we are Abians. PDP in Abia State has closed shop as from today.”

Governor Otti, while receiving Chukwu into the Labour Party, hailed his decision and described him as a principled leader.

According to him, Chukwu is “a man who will give you your due respect.”

However, state Labour Party Chairman Sir Emmanuel Otti called the defection “a move that will awaken the people of the area to new opportunities.”

Ohafia LGA LP Chairman Godwin Kalu pledged unity and development, while PDP’s local chairman, Egesi Eze Azu, also announced his move to the Labour Party alongside Chukwu.

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PDP govs warn Wike, others not to obstruct November convention

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Nysom Wike

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has warned the Minister of the federal capital territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike and other party leaders not to obstruct preparations for the party’s national convention slated for November 15, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The warning was issued in a communiqué made available to newsmen on Saturday, August 23, 2025.

The governors pledged full support for the decisions of the party’s 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) taken in July, affirming that the convention will go ahead as planned.

“The Forum reaffirms its full commitment to the resolutions of the 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of July 2025 regarding the November 15 National Convention.It urges members to resist all attempts to derail the convention by anti-party forces; but to see the PDP as the only democratic institution and viable alternative for restoring Nigeria along the path of good governance and national development,” the communiqué stated.

The meeting, chaired by Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, reviewed national security concerns, threats to democratic institutions, and preparations for the Ibadan convention.

The opposition governors commended PDP members for standing firm against defections and political distractions, insisting that the party remains a credible alternative for Nigerians seeking better governance.

The forum also accused the ruling APC of divisive policies that, according to them, have worsened hardship across the country.

Though, this is coming after Wike during appearance Channels Television on August 19, renewed his criticism of the PDP National Working Committee, rejecting the zoning panel headed by Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri and disputing the recognition of Ali Odefa as National Vice Chairman (South East).

READ ALSO:  Okonjo-Iweala seeks a more sustainable energy production

He warned that tensions could escalate if the party refused to acknowledge the zonal congress that produced his ally, Chief Dan Orbih, as National Vice Chairman for the South-South.

“Well, it is over for now. A few things are remaining, and I have told them that they must do it. Our congress was held in Calabar, and there’s nothing anybody can tell us. If they want to have another round of crisis, so be it. In that congress, Chief Dan Orbih emerged as the National Vice Chairman. They never wanted the congress to be held, but congress was held.The so-called acting national chairman of the party wrote a letter to INEC after congress was held that the congress has been postponed. There is no two ways about it. The National Vice Chairman of PDP South-South is Chief Dan Orbih. If they don’t agree, that’s another round of crisis,” Wike said.

Meanwhile, Wike’s fallout with his former G5 ally, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, has further deepened divisions in the party.

The FCT minister, who serves in the APC-led federal cabinet, continues to deny accusations of anti-party activities.

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PHOTO: NDLEA Arrests Widow for Cocaine Trafficking with Fake Pregnancy

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The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a 50-year-old widow in Lagos for allegedly attempting to traffic 1.3 kilograms of cocaine while pretending to be pregnant.

The suspect, identified as Mrs. Ifeoma Ezewuike, was picked up by NDLEA operatives at the Jibowu bus terminal in Yaba on Friday, August 22, 2025.

Mrs Ifeoma Ezewuike.

She was reportedly on her way to Abuja to deliver the consignment when she was intercepted.

According to the agency’s spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, Ezewuike runs a fashion outfit known as Golden Star Creation along Ago Palace Way in Okota.

A subsequent raid on her home led to the recovery of 200 grams of a cutting agent commonly used in the preparation of cocaine.

“In her statement, Ezewuike claimed she inherited the criminal trade from her husband, who died two years ago, although she has been in the fashion business for over two decades,” Babafemi said in a statement on Sunday, August 24, 2025.

Other Major Seizures

The arrest was one of several drug operations carried out by the agency in the past week.

In Lagos, NDLEA operatives of the Directorate of Operations and General Investigation (DOGI) intercepted 90 parcels of loud a potent strain of cannabis hidden inside three cartons of kitchen sinks.

The shipment, weighing 48.6kg, was traced to a courier company and had reportedly been imported from the United States.

In Adamawa, a raid on the home of a suspected drug kingpin, Idris Garba, forced the dealer to flee by scaling a fence. His associate, 55-year-old Boniface Nnaji, was not as lucky.

He was arrested in Yola South while attempting to escape.

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NDLEA said Nnaji drove into the city with 354,480 pills of tramadol concealed in a Toyota Thundra jeep (FST-885-CZ) and a Toyota Yaris (DSA 776 AA), both of which were impounded.

The agency also arrested another suspect, Neche Okonkwo, at Idah waterside in Kogi State.

He was caught after crossing the River Niger from Onitsha, Anambra State, with 5,000 capsules of tramadol, 400 ampoules of pentazocine, and 200 ampoules of diazepam injections.

Across several states, NDLEA operatives continued their clampdown on cannabis cultivation.

In Taraba, officers working with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) destroyed 7,500kg of skunk grown on three hectares of farmland in Dadin Kowa village, Bali.

Another 901kg was recovered from a warehouse in Uzebba, Edo State, where a 54-year-old woman, Fodo Stella Sunday, was arrested.

In Edo, 14,233kg of cannabis was destroyed across four plantations in Owan West Local Government Area.

In Delta, operatives, backed by the military, cleared 25,500kg of cannabis grown on 10.2 hectares in Emu-Obiogu, Ndokwa West.

In Ondo, 25,025kg of cannabis was destroyed on three farms in Uso.

NDLEA described the series of arrests and seizures as evidence of its renewed pressure on drug syndicates operating across the country.

“These operations reflect our commitment to dismantling criminal networks and preventing dangerous substances from reaching our communities,” Babafemi said.

Ezewuike and other arrested suspects are currently in custody and will be charged to court after investigations are concluded.

 

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Why Penis Size Does Not Affect Performance, Fertility — Experts

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For countless men, penis size stirs deep anxiety fed by social media, locker-room banter, and pressure from adult content.

But sex experts and urologists agree: size rarely determines sexual function or fertility.

In a revealing conversation with PUNCH Healthwise, clinical sexologist Cecilia Agu and consultant urologist Dr. Gabriel Ogah broke down the myths emphasizing emotional connection, overall health, and sperm quality as far more meaningful indicators of sexual well-being.

Sexual Satisfaction Lies Beyond Size

Agu, who specializes in human sexology, has heard the insecurities countless times. Yet she insists that the fixation on size overshadows what truly matters in intimate relationships.

“Women value intimacy, chemistry, and creativity not centimeters,” she explained, her tone both compassionate and pragmatic.

“In most cases, size doesn’t determine performance or biological capacity. Only rare, clinically significant conditions impact size.”

She points to societal myths that equate larger size with virility.

“Historic portrayals in art and literature, and today’s media, amplify stereotypes. Pornography exaggerates, turning a normal variation into unreasonable expectations.”

Agu also cautioned against the booming market selling “enhancement” remedies.

“That industry profits off insecurity peddling pills, gadgets, and herbal supplements with no proven benefit.

The real dilemma lies in emotional weariness, not physical deficiency.”

She acknowledged true medical conditions like micropenis, often linked to hormonal or genetic causes but emphasized their rarity.

“Anyone worried about hormonal imbalances or developmental issues should seek professional evaluation,” she advised.

“Fertility Is Unrelated to Size” Dr. Gabriel Ogah

Dr. Ogah, a respected urologist, offered a no-nonsense medical perspective on the fertility question.

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“A small penis doesn’t reduce a man’s ability to impregnate a woman,” he stated firmly.

“If sperm is healthy and ejaculation occurs, fertilization can happen.”

He added that many young men consult him out of anxiety sparked by unrealistic comparisons.

“Almost always, their size falls within healthy norms. It’s undue stress, fueled by exposure to distorted media portrayals.”

Dr. Ogah also debunked the idea that older men can “restore” diminishing function through enhancement products.

“As absurd as it sounds, many try. But no pill or serum can permanently alter anatomy.

These are myths masquerading as solutions.”

So What Truly Matters?

Both experts agree: prioritizing overall health, emotional intimacy, and stress-free communication far outweighs anxiety over size.

Agu stressed that sex is about connection, not metrics. “Being nervous about measurements sets couples up for dissatisfaction.

But when you focus on pleasure, emotional safety, and experimentation, the experience transforms.”

Dr. Ogah echoed this, emphasizing regular health check-ups. “Good cardiovascular health, balanced hormones, and mental well-being are key. Size doesn’t affect that.”

Dispelling the Myths, Sustaining the Confidence

As myths dissolve under scientific clarity, a bigger concern emerges: how do we nurture a culture free of body shaming? Agu proposed educational steps.

“We should teach young people that anatomy varies. Performance is multi-dimensional. Communication trumps comparison every time.”

Dr. Ogah endorsed that sentiment. “Let’s shift the narrative. Appreciate function over form. Listen to your body, and care for it through healthy living.”

Performance Isn’t About Inches

Size remains largely irrelevant when partners are emotionally in sync, focused on connection, and attuned to shared pleasure.

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Fertility hinges on sperm health not size.

Medical concerns like micropenis are rare, but deserve medical evaluation.

Media, culture, and marketing distort reality. Let’s counter that with facts.

Confidence and sexual well-being stem from health, honesty, and intimacy not obsession with size.

In the end, as Agu beautifully summed up, “It’s not the size it’s how you share it.” That truth holds far more value than any number on a measuring tape.

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I’m Not Desperate to Be President – Atiku

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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has said he is more interested in building a better Nigeria than in becoming president at all costs.

Atiku made this known on Saturday during an affirmation ceremony in Lagos for new defectors to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The event saw several political heavyweights from the PDP and Labour Party officially announce their defection to the ADC.

The former PDP candidate, who recently resigned from the party along with other opposition politicians, formally joined the ADC in what he described as a “movement for national renewal.”

Speaking at the event, Atiku said his focus was not personal ambition but the pursuit of a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Nigeria.

“Atiku Abubakar’s plan is to build a better Nigeria,” said Olateju, who spoke on behalf of Atiku.

“It’s not about him being president at all costs. It’s about having a government that can truly deliver for Nigerians.”

According to him, the ADC should not be seen merely as a political party but as a movement dedicated to national transformation.

“It’s no longer politics as usual. This is a new beginning for Nigeria, and that’s what Atiku is championing,” he added.

Atiku further noted that the removal of fuel subsidy and rising inflation have left many Nigerians struggling.

He stressed that only good leadership could deliver lasting solutions.

He also said the coalition was confident that God would use them to bring meaningful change to Nigeria.

On who would likely emerge as the ADC presidential candidate in 2027, Atiku insisted the choice would be left to party members.

READ ALSO:  We’re not aware of N1.2tn proposal, says ASUU

“Whoever emerges through a free and fair contest, we will all support. We are not imposing anyone,” he said.

“The point is not Atiku for president at all costs, or Obi for president at all costs. The point is Nigeria.

Whoever picks the ticket will represent the collective voice and aspirations of the Nigerian people,” he added.

Prominent defectors present at the event included PDP Board of Trustees member Dr. Abimbola Ogunkelu; former Lagos PDP chairmen Chief Muritala Ashorobi and Retired Capt. Tunji Shelle; PDP Vice Chairman (Lagos Central); and former PDP Youth Leader Mr. Tai Benedict, among others.

They were received by top ADC leaders, including National Secretary Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Senator Kolawole Ogunwale, and Lagos State Chairman George Ashiru.

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