The Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has highlighted the vibrant cultural performances that marked the organisation’s Open Day in Geneva, with Nigerian masquerades emerging as one of the standout attractions.

The WTO opened its headquarters to members of the public on Sunday, offering visitors an opportunity to tour the organisation’s home, learn more about its work and staff, and explore the artworks displayed within its headquarters.
Nigerian masquerades steal show at WTO open day in Geneva. Credit: X | NOIwealaNigerian masquerades steal show at WTO open day in Geneva. Credit: X | NOIweala

Sharing highlights from the event in a post on X, Okonjo-Iweala said WTO members added colour to the Open Day by showcasing their food, culture and traditions.

“So many #WTO Members made the Open Day fun with their food and cultural items,” she wrote.

She thanked participating members, including China, Chinese Taipei, Comoros, the Dominican Republic, Egypt, Georgia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Mongolia, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Peru, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Thailand and Viet Nam, for contributing to the event’s success.
Nigerian masquerades steal show at WTO open day in Geneva. Credit: X | NOIwealaNigerian masquerades steal show at WTO open day in Geneva. Credit: X | NOIweala

Placing particular emphasis on Nigeria’s cultural showcase, Okonjo-Iweala invited the public to watch videos from the event, which featured energetic performances by Nigerian masquerades and traditional dancers that entertained visitors and celebrated the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Nigerian masquerades steal show at WTO open day in Geneva. Credit: X | NOIwealaNigerian masquerades steal show at WTO open day in Geneva. Credit: X | NOIweala

“There are many beautiful photos of the day that will momentarily be up on the WTO website. Here are a few of me with some visiting children. Many thanks also to the many staff and the volunteers who made the day a successful one. Up WTO!” she wrote.

Watch the video below:

𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐎: 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐀𝐭 𝐖𝐓𝐎 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐚

Credit: X | NOIweala

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Hannah Johnson

Hannah Johnson is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over three years of professional experience in reporting, storytelling, and digital content creation. She blends traditional reporting skills with a modern, digital-first approach to journalism, producing content tailored for both web and social platforms. Hannah is skilled at turning complex topics into clear, engaging, and relatable stories that resonate with a wide audience. Her work reflects hands-on newsroom experience, editorial judgment, and a strong commitment to accurate, audience-focused journalism.