A heartwarming video of World Trade Organisation Director-General Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala displaying her dance skills as an Igbo masquerade performed at the WTO annual Open Day ceremony has gone viral on social media, showcasing Nigerian culture on a global stage.
WTO Open Day Highlights Nigerian Traditions
The event saw a crowd of international delegates and ambassadors watching as the Ogene, a metal gong paired with the rattle of the Ichaka, was played. The highlight came when the Adamma masquerade strode into the centre of the square, delivering intense dance moves as the tempo increased.
Okonjo-Iweala, initially watching from the sidelines, was invited into the circle. She caught the rhythm and matched the masquerade's energy, drawing cheers from onlookers. Another clip captured the masquerade bowing low and spinning in a flurry of colour, with Okonjo-Iweala waving gracefully and smiling broadly.
Social Media Reactions
Sharing the video on her social media page, Okonjo-Iweala wrote: "Enjoy some lovely videos of Nigerian masquerades and dancers at the @wto Open Day." The post sparked widespread reactions from Nigerians. User Ramsey1670580 commented: "@NOIweala mummy ngo we all know you are trying to put nigeria in a good spotlight but it is igbo masquerade and dancers thank you for what you keep doing."
ChimedomC said: "Lovely to see. Igbo masquerades are super interesting to watch! The spirit is dancing through her. For her to be dancing with so much agility at that age, interesting to watch." Ifechukwuifenna added: "Wow... This is so so lovely. Mrs NOIwela can really dance mehnn... Those dance moves are sweet to watch." mitcalvinmadiba remarked: "Splendid. Thank you for showcasing our culture at the global stage. Lovely dance moves you gat." iambrainland noted: "Mama no gree old again.. God bless you for everything you do ma. People like you still help give Nigeria a good image regardless.."
Recent Personal News
In related news, Prince Ikechukwu Okonjo, younger brother of Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and a member of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family, passed away on Saturday, May 30, 2026, as reported by The Nation on Saturday, June 6, 2026.
Okonjo-Iweala's Advocacy for Girl-Child Education
Earlier, Okonjo-Iweala commended Nigerian author Abdullahi Haruna Haruspice for an article advocating girl-child education in northern Nigeria, describing the piece as exceptional. She noted that she rarely shares articles speaking positively about her but made an exception in this case, earning applause from many Nigerians.
