The National Identification Authority (NIA) has significantly expanded its operations, launching 24-hour Ghana Card services to enhance public access for registration and card replacement. This strategic move aims to accommodate citizens who cannot visit NIA offices during regular working hours due to professional commitments.
The expansion includes the establishment of 24-hour prestige centres, which will operate continuously, including weekends and public holidays. Wisdom Yayra Koku Deku, Chief Executive Officer of the NIA, confirmed this development during an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem programme on Thursday, July 23. He stated that the Authority has already extended its services to all district offices across Ghana's 16 regions.
This initiative is crucial for Ghana's economic and administrative landscape, where the Ghana Card is increasingly becoming the sole identification document for various transactions. The extended hours will particularly benefit individuals who work during the day and are only free after 5 p.m. to access these essential services. It also addresses urgent replacement needs, preventing delays that could impact productivity, as highlighted by Mr. Deku.
To support the round-the-clock operations, the NIA has employed approximately 120 additional staff. These new employees will work on a three-shift system, ensuring continuous service availability. This staffing increase demonstrates the NIA's commitment to meeting the growing demand for Ghana Card services and improving citizen convenience.
Mr. Deku cited an example of an individual who misplaced their Ghana Card over a weekend and had to wait until Monday for a replacement, which affected their productivity. The new 24-hour service, including weekend and holiday operations, is designed to prevent such inconveniences, ensuring that urgent needs are met promptly. This operational upgrade aligns with the broader national agenda to streamline identification processes and integrate the Ghana Card into critical public and private sector services.
The move by the NIA is expected to have positive implications for various sectors, including banking, telecommunications, and public administration, where the Ghana Card is now mandatory for many transactions. Increased accessibility will facilitate smoother operations for businesses and reduce bottlenecks for citizens. Decision-makers and markets will closely watch the efficiency and public adoption rates of these expanded services, as they are vital for Ghana's digital transformation and economic inclusion efforts. The success of this initiative will further solidify the Ghana Card's role as a foundational element of the nation's identity infrastructure.