The Nigerian Economist Who Convinced the World Bank to Kneel

Time for a Change
In the world of international finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a force to be reckoned with. As the first woman and first African to lead the World Bank, her impact on the global economy has been profound. Okonjo-Iweala's journey to the top of the international finance world has been filled with challenges, but her determination and belief in the power of economics to make a positive difference have never wavered.
Breaking Barriers
Born in Ogwashi-Ukwu, Nigeria, in 1954, Okonjo-Iweala grew up in a family of academics. Her father was a renowned economist, and her mother was a sociologist. From an early age, Okonjo-Iweala was fascinated by numbers and the way they could be used to understand the world around her.
After earning her bachelor's degree in economics from Harvard University, Okonjo-Iweala went on to earn a doctorate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). She then began her career at the World Bank, where she quickly rose through the ranks.
In 2003, Okonjo-Iweala was appointed Nigeria's Minister of Finance. She served in this role for two terms, during which time she led efforts to improve the country's economic stability and reduce corruption.
A Global Agenda
In 2007, Okonjo-Iweala was appointed managing director of the World Bank. As head of the world's largest development institution, she oversaw a budget of over $100 billion and a staff of over 10,000 people.
During her tenure, Okonjo-Iweala focused on three key areas: sustainable economic growth, poverty reduction, and climate change. She also worked to increase the Bank's transparency and accountability.
Under Okonjo-Iweala's leadership, the World Bank played a leading role in the response to the global financial crisis. The Bank provided financial assistance to countries around the world, and it helped to develop policies to promote economic recovery.
Okonjo-Iweala also worked closely with the G20 nations to develop a global response to climate change. She led the Bank's efforts to provide financial support for clean energy projects and to help developing countries adapt to the effects of climate change.
Legacy and Impact
Okonjo-Iweala is widely regarded as one of the most influential economists in the world. She has been named one of Time's 100 Most Influential People, and she has received numerous awards for her work.
Okonjo-Iweala's legacy is one of innovation and leadership. She has broken down barriers and opened up new opportunities for women and for people from developing countries. She has also shown that economics can be a powerful force for good in the world.
Call to Action
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is an inspiration to us all. Her story shows us that anything is possible if we have the determination and belief in ourselves. Let us all strive to be like her, to make a positive difference in our communities and the world around us.