By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Biometric National Identity Card, equipped with advanced features, is becoming a crucial element for citizens and non-citizens alike. The card, featuring a chip with biometric data, streamlines identity verification, providing access to Government facilities and facilitating remote Know-Your-Customer (KYC) checks in the financial sector.
The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has mandated the use of National Identification Numbers (NIN) for pupils in public examination classes, emphasizing the card’s growing significance in education. Obtaining the National ID Card is a straightforward process for residents aged 12 and above, while non-citizens can apply for the Non-National ID Card for permits.
In this transformative initiative, the NCRA has ensured that the Biometric Identity Cards are Securitized and Multi-purpose with an advanced ID Verification System. The cards are mandated for use at checkpoints nationwide, ensuring secure transactions and offering convenience to cardholders.
The NCRA urges Sierra Leoneans to prioritize obtaining their Biometric ID Cards, emphasizing its role in personal security, participation in national development, and access to essential services. The institution highlights the statutory obligation and the unique National Identification Number (NIN) as pivotal security elements.
To facilitate the application process, specific NCRA Offices and designated centers have been established across Sierra Leone. The NCRA’s campaign aims to enhance personal security, streamline public and private sector services, and contribute to the country’s security architecture.
It must be underscored that the designated centers and NCRA offices, strategically located throughout the country, offer accessibility for citizens to secure their Biometric National ID cards. The NCRA has introduced corporate services for organizations, further promoting accessibility and efficiency.
In alignment with the Government’s commitment to creating a safer, more efficient, and accessible environment, the NCRA’s initiative underscores the importance of citizens fulfilling their civil responsibility by obtaining the National Biometric ID Cards.
Designated centers and six specific offices have been opened throughout the country in locations that are easily-accessible, as part of efforts to facilitate the ID registration process. The centres are:
1. NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown.
2. NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown.
3. NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown.
4. NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (By the Round About).
5. NCRA Office: Waterloo along the Freetown High Way (Opposite the Police Station).
6. NCRA Offices: Regional Headquarter Towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko.
To improve accessibility, the NCRA has introduced specialized corporate services designed for organizations and institutions. For detailed information on these services, interested parties can reach out to the following contact numbers: +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-60-000, +232-78-221-812, or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.
It is essential to acknowledge that fulfilling this civil responsibility is crucial for citizens.
