The Executive Chairman of Ukum Local Government Council, Hon. Jonathan Modi, on Wednesday led members of the Army Headquarters Committee on the Implementation of Formation and Unit on an inspection visit to Aterayange in Torov, the proposed location for a new Army Barracks. The move is aimed at tackling the persistent security challenges that have long plagued Ukum Local Government Area.
Speaking during the visit, Hon. Jonathan Modi underscored the urgent need to strengthen security across the council area. He noted that insecurity has severely disrupted farming activities and reduced agricultural productivity by an estimated 70 percent. The Chairman stressed that the establishment of an Army Barracks would not only restore peace to Torov but also deliver lasting security throughout Ukum, allowing residents to return safely to their farms and livelihoods.
Responding on behalf of the Army Headquarters Committee, General Utsaha, GCO Moses Gara, together with other senior military officers, expressed confidence that the proposed barracks at Aterayange would significantly improve security across the local government. He explained that while the main barracks would be sited at Aterayange, additional military units would be strategically deployed to communities including Borikyo, Mbazun, Ugbaam, Uyam, Kundav, Mbatian and other areas affected by insecurity.
According to him, the initiative is designed to enhance military presence, protect lives and property, and create a secure environment that will foster peace, boost agricultural productivity and support sustainable development in Ukum. Accompanying the Chairman on the inspection were Director Naje Tertsea, Leader of the Ukum Legislative Council Hon. Salem Solomon, Security Secretary of Ukum Local Government Comr. Aku T Enoch, and other government officials.
