Nigeria, Feb. 5 -- The United States government has announced its endorsement of former the Nigerian minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, to emerge as the director general of the World Trade Organization.

The U.S. disclosed this in a statement by its office of trade representative.

It became clear earlier on Friday that Mrs Okonjo-Iweala, a former finance minister and World Bank executive, would likely clinch the coveted post after her final challenger to the position, South Korean Trade Minister and candidate, Yoo Myung-hee, announced her withdrawal.

Ms Yoo made the decision after discussions with the U.S. and other major nations, a statement from Korea's trade ministry said on Friday.

She also took various issues into account "comprehensi...