As the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, prepares to mark its week-long celebration, the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has been extolled for his steadfast commitment to the welfare and well-being of local government employees.
The Workers’ Week, which will commence on September 15th and end on September 19th, will feature a Thanksgiving service, a novelty football match, a carnival float, a symposium, and the convocation of the General Assembly.
This was announced by the State NULGE President, Comrade Anestina Iweh, during a press conference held at NULGE House, Abak Road, Uyo, on Friday, September 6, 2024.
According to the union leader, Governor Umo Eno has fulfilled his promises to local government workers, covering the payment of gratuities to retired workers, increased allocation to local government councils, and improved working conditions.
“In the history of our union, Pastor Umo Eno is the first governor to consult the union in person. He asked about our problems, and we presented him with a document called our Charter of Demand.
“Although I was initially sceptical, our governor surprised us by paying the 2020 and 2021 grants to all 31 local government workers in one day, just a month after taking office.”
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Comrade Iweh noted that gratuities from 2013 to 2014 have been cleared, and the State Governor is currently working on clearing the 2015 gratuity.
“Before his administration, gratuity payments to our retired local government workers were only up to 2013. The previous governor had paid up to 2011, and then for eight years, another governor paid for 2012 and part of 2013.
“In just one year, Pastor Umo Eno has cleared the balance of 2013, and 2014, and is almost done with the 2015 gratuity, releasing over 3 billion naira for these payments.”
Regarding allocation, Iweh said local government councils can now provide social amenities to their constituents due to the increased allocation since Governor Umo Eno’s administration began.
“Unlike previous administrations, where allocations were as low as three or five million naira and local governments were unable to pay interest or carry out their responsibilities effectively, the present era is a significant improvement.”
Expressing optimism in the present government regarding the Union’s welfare, the NULGE President said, “We are confident that this administration will continue to prioritise the welfare of local government workers by paying gratuities and arrears.”
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Amos Etuk, also expressed gratitude to NULGE for their collaborative efforts and looked forward to fostering an even more productive and successful partnership in the years to come.
