NIA Registers 3.1 Million Children for Ghana Card Nationwide

The National Identification Authority (NIA) has resumed the Ghana Card registration for children. This exercise targets children between the ages of six and fourteen. The registration drive started in the Volta Region and Oti Region on May 5, 2026. It is a crucial step towards building a comprehensive national identity system.

This initiative is part of a larger plan by the NIA. The authority aims to register approximately 3.1 million children across the country. The goal is to ensure inclusivity from an early age. The Volta and Oti Regions are the initial locations for this phased rollout. Each phase is designed to last at least 21 days for thorough coverage. Registration teams will visit both public and private schools. They will collect details daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Ghana's economic development relies on accurate identification. A robust national ID system supports many government services. It also aids financial inclusion and efficient data management. Previous efforts by the NIA have aimed to capture the adult population. This new phase specifically focuses on the youth. This data will be vital for future planning and resource allocation by the government.

Parents or guardians must present specific documents for registration. This includes the child’s original birth certificate. A valid Ghanaian passport is also acceptable. A certificate of acquired citizenship can also be used. If these are not available, a parent, relative, or legal guardian can complete an Oath of Identity form. In cases where a child has no known relatives, two Social Welfare Officers may provide verification under oath. Presenting individuals must be at least 18 years old and have a valid Ghana Card.

The NIA has urged parents and guardians to participate fully. Providing false information or registering non-Ghanaians is a criminal offence. Punishments are severe. The NIA maintains its commitment to a secure and reliable national identity system for all citizens. Children registered during the 2024 pilot phase but without cards should visit their initial registration office. This focus on children's identity is a long-term investment in Ghana's future. It ensures that every citizen is accounted for in national databases.