Overview of Ukum Local Government Area
Ukum Local Government Area (LGA) is one of the 23 local government areas in Benue State, Nigeria,
located in the North Central region. It is predominantly inhabited by Tiv people and falls within Zone A
of the state's senatorial districts. The LGA was established on October 15, 1991, by Col. Fidelis A. Makka,
the military administrator at the time. Ukum shares a House of Representatives seat with Logo and
Katsina-Ala LGAs and has its own seat in the Benue State House of Assembly. It is renowned for hosting
the world's largest yam market in Zaki Biam, its biggest town.
### Geography and Climate
- **Location and Borders**: Positioned in the east-north of Benue State, Ukum covers an area of 1,514
km². It borders Logo LGA to the west, Katsina-Ala LGA to the south, Wukari LGA in Taraba State to the
east, and other areas to the north.
- **Headquarters**: Zaki Biam serves as the administrative headquarters.
- **Climate**: Features a tropical climate typical of Benue State, with fertile soils supporting agriculture.
The region benefits from the Benue River's influence, though seasonal streams lead to dry-season water
shortages.
- **Key Districts and Towns**: Includes Zaki Biam as the major urban center, along with rural
communities focused on farming.
### Demographics
- **Population**: Recorded 216,930 in the 2006 census, with a density of around 160–200 persons per
km², higher than the state average of 99 persons per km².
- **Ethnic Composition**: Primarily Tiv, with cultural ties to neighboring groups.
- **Postal Code**: Typically shares Benue State's codes, around 980–990 range.
### Economy and Agriculture
Ukum is a vital agricultural zone in Benue State, known as the "Food Basket of the Nation."
- **Main Activities**: Subsistence and commercial farming dominate, with major crops including yams,
soybeans, rice, cassava, and maize. The state produces 70% of Nigeria's soybeans, and Ukum contributes
significantly through its yam production and the iconic Zaki Biam Yam Market, which attracts traders
nationwide.
- **Other Sectors**: Livestock rearing and trading flourish due to market access via federal roads linking
to Gboko and Taraba State.
- **Challenges**: Ethnic clashes, such as recent Tiv-Jukun conflicts in Vaase community resulting in
deaths and property damage, disrupt economic activities.
### Governance and Administration
- **Structure**: Administered by an elected chairman and councilors across wards, with traditional Tiv
rulers aiding in local dispute resolution. It has 223 polling units for elections.
- **Political Representation**: Part of Benue North-East Senatorial District; recent elections reflect Tiv
dominance in state politics.
- **Infrastructure**: Connected by federal roads (e.g., from Yandev in Gboko to Zaki Biam and Wukari in
Taraba), supporting trade and transport.
### Culture and Social Aspects
The Tiv heritage in Ukum is vibrant, expressed through festivals, dances, and communal farming
traditions. Events like yam harvest celebrations highlight the area's agricultural pride. However,
communal tensions, including farmer-herder disputes, occasionally affect social harmony.
For current updates, such as leadership or events, check Benue State government resources. If this
refers to a different "Ukum" (e.g., a place elsewhere), provide more details!
