World Trade Organization Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala delighted guests after joining an Adamma masquerade in a traditional dance during the WTO’s annual Open Day at its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
A video from the event, which has since gone viral, showed Okonjo-Iweala stepping onto the performance floor after being invited by the masquerade’s handlers. She danced to the beats of traditional drums, the Ogene metal gong and the Ichaka rattle as delegates, ambassadors and other attendees applauded.
The performance showcased the Adamma masquerade, a revered cultural symbol from southeastern Nigeria, dressed in its distinctive woven raffia costume and carved maiden mask while performing coordinated dance steps to traditional Igbo music.
Without hesitation, Okonjo-Iweala accepted the invitation and danced alongside the masquerade, earning loud cheers from the audience.
In Igbo tradition, a masquerade inviting a respected individual to dance is considered a mark of honour and respect.
As the performance concluded, the masquerade bowed before Okonjo-Iweala, who responded with a smile and a wave to the crowd.
The dance took place during the WTO’s annual Open Day at the Centre William Rappard in Geneva, where different cultures were showcased to visitors.
The Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, shows off her energetic dancing moves today at WTO Open Day in Geneva. pic.twitter.com/0M06ZIEmld
— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) July 5, 2026
