The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) has welcomed the payment of long-standing salary arrears owed to local government workers in Akwa Ibom State, describing the move as a major relief for affected employees.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the state NULGE President, Anestina Iweh, said the settlement of the arrears has renewed workers’ confidence in the state government and improved morale across local government councils.

The payment followed the approval of Governor Umo Eno, who directed the clearance of the outstanding obligations owed to local government employees.

According to the union, workers had waited for several years for the arrears to be paid, making the development a significant milestone in the administration’s efforts to improve workers’ welfare.

“The successful payment of the outstanding arrears is a significant demonstration of the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare and wellbeing,” the union said.

NULGE added that the payment has restored confidence among employees and renewed the motivation of workers who had patiently awaited the settlement of the outstanding entitlements.

The union further described the move as a positive step toward strengthening the local government system and enhancing service delivery across the state.

It also expressed appreciation to the state government for addressing the issue, noting that improved staff welfare remains critical to effective grassroots governance and public service delivery.