By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Sierra Leone citizens are granted an extended opportunity to secure their Biometric National ID Cards, following an announcement by the Government through the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA). The new deadline, set for June 28th, 2024, allows citizens and non-nationals ample time to obtain their identification documents. This decision, conveyed via a Public Notice on March 28th, 2024, aims to ensure widespread access to crucial services and compliance with a Cabinet Directive ratified by Parliament in 2022.
The integration of National Identification Numbers (NIN) in the ID Cards facilitates access to a range of services, including financial transactions, vehicle registration, educational institution enrollment, and more. Individuals are encouraged to acquire their ID Cards from any NCRA office or designated center nationwide, operating from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday to Friday. While National and Non-National ID Cards are mandatory, obtaining an ECOWAS identity card remains optional.
Effective July 1st, 2024, the NCRA will collaborate with the security sector to ensure compliance with the Cabinet Directive and Parliamentary Ratification, ensuring accurate identification of all residents. The NIN embedded in the ID Cards serves as the primary means of personal identification in Sierra Leone, underscoring the importance for all residents to obtain and carry their ID Cards.
For further guidance, individuals can contact the NCRA or visit their nearest registration center. This extension follows a previous Public Notice issued in February 2024, aiming to provide ample opportunity for the public to acquire their ID Cards.
The NINs embedded in the ID Cards will become prerequisites for various transactions and services, highlighting their significance in accessing essential services and rights. The NCRA has established multiple centers across Sierra Leone to streamline the acquisition process for individuals aged 12 and above, including non-citizens applying for Non-National ID Cards.
The introduction of ECOWAS compliant Identity Cards has not only instilled a sense of pride among cardholders but has also unlocked seamless opportunities for accessing social services and government provisions.
Designated Centers for Acquiring Biometric ID Cards:
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 Roundabout).
5. NCRA Office: Waterloo along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station).
6. NCRA Offices: Regional Headquarter Towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko.
For detailed inquiries regarding these services, interested parties can contact the NCRA via the following phone numbers: +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-60-000, +232-78-221-812, or through email at idverification@ncra.gov.
