By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has intensified its campaign, reminding all individuals in Sierra Leone, both citizens and non-citizens, to link their National Identification Numbers (NINs) embedded in their Biometric ID Cards to their mobile phone SIM cards. This nationwide process, which began on September 1, 2024 will conclude on November 30, 2024 and failure to comply could result in severe consequences, including the disruption of mobile services.
The NCRA, in collaboration with the Government of Sierra Leone, is implementing this mandatory initiative to enhance identity verification, secure personal identities and curb the misuse of mobile services for illegal activities. All mobile phone users are urged to complete this process within the specified timeframe to avoid penalties that include losing the ability to make or receive calls, send SMS messages and access mobile money services.
The Biometric ID Card, issued by the NCRA, is more than just an identification tool. Each card contains a unique NIN that helps prevent identity theft and fraud while facilitating access to essential services. The Government has made it clear that this initiative is critical to ensuring a secure digital landscape in Sierra Leone, where mobile communication is an integral part of daily life.
NCRA officials emphasize that the consequences of failing to link NINs to SIM cards by November 30 will be far-reaching. Individuals who do not comply risk being cut off from vital communication services, affecting their ability to conduct personal and business transactions.
“The Government has mandated this process to protect citizens and non-citizens from identity theft and misuse of mobile services,” stated an NCRA spokesperson. “We strongly encourage everyone to link their NINs to their SIM cards to avoid any disruptions in their daily activities.”
The NIN-SIM linkage process is a key part of Sierra Leone’s broader strategy to tighten security and improve service delivery across various sectors. The Biometric ID Card, which is required for banking, law enforcement and educational purposes, plays an increasingly important role in ensuring that individuals’ identities are accurately verified.
The NCRA has set up registration and collection centers nationwide to facilitate easy access for individuals seeking to obtain their Biometric ID Cards and complete the linkage process: To facilitate easy access, the NCRA has set up numerous registration and collection centers nationwide including:
- NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown
- NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown
- NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown
- NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (Near the Roundabout)
- NCRA Office: Waterloo, along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station)
- Regional NCRA Offices in Bo, Kenema, Makeni and Port Loko
For further assistance or inquiries, individuals can reach the NCRA at:
– Mobile: +232 33 939740 / +232 79 578063
– Website: [www.ncra.gov.sl](http://www.ncra.gov.sl)
– Email: info@ncra.gov.sl
The NCRA also offers corporate Biometric ID Card issuance services for public and private institutions.
As the deadline approaches, the NCRA urges all residents to act swiftly to avoid being penalized. For further assistance, individuals can contact the NCRA via their helpline or visit their official website.
The Government of Sierra Leone, through the NCRA, remains committed to securing personal identities and ensuring that everyone can access essential services seamlessly. However, non-compliance will have dire consequences, and citizens and non-citizens alike are reminded to complete the NIN-SIM linkage by the November 30 deadline to avoid disruptions in mobile services.
