Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a renowned economist and policymaker who has made significant contributions in the areas of finance, development, and trade. Born on June 13, 1954, in Ogwashi-Ukwu, Nigeria, Ngozi is a Nigerian-American national. She is widely acclaimed for her years of service as the Nigerian Minister of Finance and as a Senior Official at the World Bank.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is well educated, having attended the International School Ibadan and later Harvard University, where she graduated with honors in 1977. In 1981, she graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology with a PhD in regional economic development. Her career began as a Development Economist at the World Bank, where she worked for over two decades. During this time, she served as the Vice President and Corporate Secretary, as well as the Managing Director for Operations and later as a Senior Advisor.

Prior to her appointment as Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala also served as the Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs. She held this position for a brief time in 2006 before she resigned after being ousted as the leader of Nigeria’s Economic Team by former president Olusegun Obasanjo. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala served as the Nigerian Minister of Finance twice (2003-2006 and 2011-2015), contributing significantly to the economic development and progress of the country.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been described as a focused and determined individual who is committed to the development of the African continent. She is highly regarded for her skills in negotiation, strategic planning, and implementation. During her time at the World Bank, she played a key role in promoting the development of poorer countries, encouraging debt relief, and reducing poverty.

Before her rise to fame, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala faced several challenges and opportunities that helped shape her career. Growing up, she was exposed to different cultures and experiences, which helped her to appreciate the value of diversity and adaptability. Additionally, she faced gender and cultural barriers, which she addressed by leveraging her skills, education, and determination to succeed.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is married to Ikemba Iweala, with whom she has four children. Her son, Uzodinma Iweala, is also a popular author and wrote the book Beasts of No Nation, which was adapted into a film by Netflix, directed by Cary Fukunaga and starring Idris Elba among others.

Throughout her career, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has worked with several notable figures in the industry. She has collaborated with business leaders, policymakers, and public officials to drive positive change. Additionally, she has inspired and mentored young and emerging professionals in the field of economics and finance.