
By statutory provision, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) is exclusively responsible for the compulsory and continuous recording of vital events of citizens and non-citizens in Sierra Leone through an integrated civil registration, vital statistics, and identity management system.

Academically, civil registration is primarily referred to as “an administrative system that involves the continuous gathering of information on all relevant vital events, including birth, marriage, divorce, adoption, and death. » Civil registration is also defined by the United Nations as the “universal, continuous, permanent, and compulsory recording of vital events provided through decree or regulation in accordance with the legal requirements of each country.”.
In an effort to improve the country’s civil registration and statistics systems, the government of His Excellency Dr. Rtd. Brig. Julius Maada Bio has conveniently achieved the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of legal identification for all, and this was done conveniently through Mohamed Musbashir Massaquoi, Director General of NCRA, who introduced pioneering and contemporary securitized and multi-purpose biometric identity cards with an advanced ID verification system, aiming to transform the country’s landscape.

Mr. Massaquoi has assured residents of Sierra Leone that the introduction of accessible and affordable biometric ID cards aims to strengthen personal security and streamline local transactions.
He added that the advanced identity card is equipped with cutting-edge verification systems. The cards equally enhance safety and streamline daily interactions; they securely store personal data, promising improved access to essential services while safeguarding individual rights.
Colossal testimonies on the streets, paths, and corners across Sierra Leone by holders of the present National ID Card show that they are overwhelmingly satisfied with the current ID cards as they are a crucial legal identity document for both citizens and non-citizens in Sierra Leone.

The essential National Identification Number (NIN) with an 8-digit number, randomly assigned, acts as a pivotal security element linking individual records within the National Identity Database and serving as a legitimate cornerstone for identity verification.
Currently, there is a national call to obtain national biometric ID cards, which has been highlighted as a civic responsibility critical for enhancing personal security and simplifying local transactions. This is a concerted effort by all and sundry towards national security measures.
Interestingly and most 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.
The National Civil Registration Authority 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.

Moreover, 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.sl
Additionally, and very importantly, a joint tripartite and clarion call has been consciously made by the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), Sierra Leone Police (SLP), and Office of National Security (ONS) to inform the general public that a Cabinet Directive Ratified by Parliament in March 2022 provides for the mandatory link of the identification cards (national, non-national, and ECOWAS) with the National Identification Number (NIN) inscribed on the ID cards to access services including transactions with financial institutions (banks, forex bureaus, insurance, etc.), vehicle registration and licensing, recruitment or enrollment into public institutions of learning or employment.
Lokombe Nkalulu
Editor-in-Chief, Afriqu’Europe Magazine