By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Office of National Security (ONS), has on December 20, 2024 issued a public notice reminding residents, both citizens and non-citizens, to obtain their National, Non-National or ECOWAS ID Cards before December 30, 2024. The notice, signed by NCRA Director-General, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, National Security Coordinator Abdulai Caulker and Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu, states that ID card checks will commence across the country starting January 1, 2025.
These checks will be conducted at various security checkpoints and in communities nationwide as part of an effort to ensure reliable identification for all residents. Heads of state institutions have been instructed to enforce compliance with legislation linking access to essential services to National Identification Numbers (NINs) or ID Cards.
The NCRA emphasizes that ID Cards are now mandatory for accessing services, including:
- Financial transactions (banks, forex bureaus, insurance)
- Vehicle registration and licensing
- Public and private sector recruitment
- NASSIT enrollment
- Land and property registration
- Enrollment in educational institutions and public exams
- SIM card registration
- Vital events registration (birth, death, marriage, etc.)
- Immigration services (resident/work permits)
- Business registration and incorporation
Citizens and foreign residents are urged to obtain their Biometric ID Cards at any NCRA office or registration center nationwide. The National and Non-National ID Cards are mandatory, while the ECOWAS ID Card is issued upon request.
Introduced in 2023, Biometric ID Cards feature advanced security measures, including fingerprint scanning, facial recognition and embedded secure chips. These cards aim to:
- Strengthen national and individual security.
- Simplify access to essential public and private services.
- Prevent identity theft and fraudulent activities.
An NCRA official noted, “These Biometric ID Cards enhance security and ensure that citizens and institutions are safeguarded from identity fraud.”
Biometric ID Cards are available to:
- Sierra Leonean citizens aged 12 and above.
- ECOWAS nationals residing in Sierra Leone.
- Foreign residents, who are required by law to obtain Non-National ID Cards for work and residence permits.
To apply:
- Visit an NCRA office or registration center.
- Complete the registration form with personal details.
- Provide biometric data, including fingerprints and facial scans.
- Collect the ID card upon processing.
Registration centers are located in major towns, including Bo, Kenema, Makeni, Port Loko and various offices across Freetown.
In a parallel initiative to boost security and prevent cybercrime, the NCRA is expediting efforts to link NINs to mobile phone SIM cards. Failure to comply may result in the deactivation of telecommunications services, including mobile money transfers and voice calls.
Director-General, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, recently chaired a high-level meeting with stakeholders from the National Telecommunications Commission (NaCTA), Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and the SLP to ensure a smooth integration process.
The NCRA underscores that securing a Biometric ID Card is both a personal responsibility and a civic duty. By carrying your ID Card and linking your NIN to your SIM card, you contribute to national security and help build a more efficient and digitally inclusive Sierra Leone.
For further information, visit any NCRA office, contact the Authority via www.ncra.gov.sl or call +232 33 939740 / +232 79 578063.
This festive season, make security and compliance a priority. Secure your Biometric ID Card today.
