By Onyinyechi Iheanacho
In the last week of May this year, Niger State bid farewell to an exceptional leader and trailblazer, Mary Noel-Berje, who served as the Chief Press Secretary to the Former Governor of Niger State and current Senator, Abubakar Sani Bello. Her tenure was nothing short of remarkable.
Mary Noel-Berje, a proficient journalist and social engineer, has made an indelible impact on the state by effectively bridging the gap between the government and the realities of society. Her exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication have transformed her into an icon, not only for women but for all Nigerians.
The appointment of Mary Noel-Berje as the Chief Press Secretary in 2019 stood as a historic moment, as it was the first time a woman had ever assumed this prestigious position since the creation of Niger State over four decades ago.
Hailing from Minna, Niger State, Mary’s journey to prominence serves as a testament to her resilience and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Mary Noel-Berje holds a Diploma in Mass Communication and a B.Sc. in Political Science, acquired from the esteemed Universities of Jos and Abuja, respectively.
In pursuit of knowledge, she joined the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in 1998, where she made noteworthy contributions to the enduring legacy of the broadcast industry.
Throughout her illustrious career, Mary Noel-Berje has consistently demonstrated professionalism, intellectual acumen, and unwavering dedication.
Her remarkable leadership skills were acknowledged with the prestigious News Personality of the Year award in 2008, reflecting her exceptional contributions to the field of journalism.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Mary Noel-Berje has consistently displayed compassion and a steadfast commitment to the betterment of society, which led to the creation of the AYEWOSAI Foundation, a non-Governmental Organization denoting “Love God’s Time.”
The establishment of the Foundation is a testament to her deep empathy for the less privileged, and she has been able to touch the lives of numerous families, providing them with both material and emotional support.
As a community builder, Mary Noel-Berje’s impact extends far beyond her professional duties. She has served as a beacon of hope and a pillar of support to countless individuals.
Mary Noel-Berje’s legacy of leadership and service extends beyond the boundaries of Niger State. She held leadership positions in the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Niger State Chapter, for about four years. Her commitment to excellence and dedication to societal betterment have garnered recognition from national and international organizations. She has been honored with awards of excellence, including the “International Peace Advocate” by the UN-POLAC Foundation and the “Legacy of True Leadership” award by Leadership News Magazine in Dubai.
Mary Noel-Berje’s leadership within the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Niger State Chapter, showcased her commitment to empowering women and advancing their rights. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed, as she has been recognized nationally and internationally for her exceptional contributions to society.
Due to her exceptional leadership skills, the Nigerian Youth Organization for Leadership and Right Activation bestowed upon her the prestigious title of “Chief Doyen of Nigerian Youth,” further solidifying her impact on the younger generation. Furthermore, her outstanding prowess in administration led to her recognition as a Fellow of the Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria.
Mary Noel-Berje’s contributions to nation-building and her remarkable achievements have garnered recognition even from her tribe. The Gbagyi Students Association of Nigeria, Niger State Chapter, proudly honored her with an award of excellence.
Amidst her remarkable achievements, Mary Noel-Berje remains grounded in her family values. She has been dedicated to her marriage to Mr. Noel-Berje Shekwolo and her wonderful three lovely children, symbolizing her ability to excel both in her personal and professional life.
In bidding farewell to Mary Noel-Berje’s tenure as Chief Press Secretary to Governor Abubakar Sani Bello, we recognize the indelible mark she has left on the state and the countless lives she has touched.
Her tenure as the Chief Press Secretary witnessed a remarkable transformation in communication strategies, ensuring that the Governor’s vision and initiatives reached every corner of Niger State. Through her strong communication skills, Mary Noel-Berje effectively conveyed the Governor’s messages to the media and the public, fostering transparency and building trust.
Mary Noel-Berje’s journey serves as an inspiration to all, especially women, as she shattered the glass ceiling and broke barriers in her path. Her tireless efforts in bridging the gap between government and society have created a more inclusive and engaged community.
During times of crisis, Mary Noel-Berje exhibited extraordinary composure, demonstrating her ability to handle sensitive situations with grace and efficiency. Her strategic thinking and crisis management skills were invaluable in navigating challenging circumstances and ensuring accurate and timely information dissemination.
As Mary Noel-Berje steps down from her role as Chief Press Secretary, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for her outstanding service, professionalism, and dedication to the people of Niger State. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations, reminding us of the importance of compassion, integrity, and leadership in creating a better society.
In conclusion, Mary Noel-Berje’s tenure as Chief Press Secretary was marked by unwavering commitment, trailblazing achievements, and a genuine passion for serving the people of Niger State. Her exceptional leadership, compassion, and dedication have left an indelible impact on the state’s governance and communication landscape. As we bid farewell, we celebrate her remarkable journey and eagerly anticipate the continued positive influence she will have in her future endeavours.
