Citizens Urged to Prioritize Security: Acquire Biometric ID Cards

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leoneans are being urged to prioritize acquiring Biometric ID Cards to bolster personal security and streamline local transactions. The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) is leading a pioneering initiative, introducing Securitized and Multi-purpose Biometric Identity Cards with an advanced ID Verification System, aiming to transform the country’s landscape.

In 2024, the call to obtain National Biometric ID Cards has been highlighted as a civic responsibility critical for enhancing personal security and simplifying local transactions. This concerted effort seeks widespread adoption, significantly contributing to the nation’s security measures.

The National ID Card stands as a crucial legal identity document for both citizens and non-citizens in Sierra Leone, featuring the essential National Identification Number (NIN). This 11-digit number, randomly assigned, acts as a pivotal security element linking individual records within the National Identity Database, serving as a cornerstone for identity verification.

The initiative, spearheaded by the NCRA, advocates for adopting these advanced identity cards equipped with cutting-edge verification systems. Introduced earlier, these cards signify a significant stride in fortifying safety and streamlining daily interactions. Beyond mere identification, they securely store personal data, promising improved access to essential services while safeguarding individual rights.

The NCRA has mandated the use of these innovative cards at checkpoints nationwide, ensuring seamless and secure transactions while offering convenience to cardholders. The authority strongly encourages individuals to obtain their National ID Cards from strategically positioned branches across Sierra Leone.

Significantly, the National Identification Number (NIN) is now a compulsory requirement for pupils in public examination classes (NPSE, BECE, and WASSCE), highlighting the cards’ importance in the educational sector.

Individuals aged 12 years and above can apply for the National ID Card by visiting their nearest NCRA Office in their respective districts. Specific NCRA Offices and designated centers have been established in key locations across the country to facilitate the application process.

Furthermore, the NCRA has tailored corporate services for various entities such as Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), Foreign Missions, and Financial Institutions. Interested parties can access details about these services through specified contact numbers or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.

Simplifying Application Procedures: Designated Centers Across Sierra Leone
To ensure accessibility, the NCRA has established specific offices and centers across key locations:

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.

In a bid to enhance accessibility, the NCRA has introduced corporate services tailored for organizations and institutions. For comprehensive information on these corporate services, interested parties can contact the following numbers: +232-33-433-333 / +232-30-500-000 / +232-60-000 / +232-78-221-812 or via EMAIL: idverification@ncra.gov.

The introduction of biometric national identity cards underscores the Government’s commitment to fostering a safer, more efficient, and accessible environment for all Sierra Leoneans, empowering both individuals and organizations.

Supporting this transformative initiative, citizens are urged to prioritize obtaining their ID cards from any of the designated centers, recognizing its significance in individual identification and participation within the national framework.