Published: September 17, 2024
Monrovia – The National Identification Registry (NIR) has requested a total of $36 million from the national government to complete the enrollment of the entire Liberian population into the National Identification System.
NIR Executive Director, Andrew Peters, stated that this funding would make it mandatory for all citizens to obtain a National ID Card.
Speaking at a ceremony marking Identity Day on Monday, Mr. Peters revealed that only 14 percent of the population currently possesses a National Identification Card. He emphasized the importance of the proposed nationwide enrollment, which would include children from birth.
“With the necessary funds available, we will ensure that every citizen, including newborns, is captured in the system. This is essential for ensuring the country has an inclusive, accurate national database,” said Peters.
He also noted that the full implementation of the program would enhance the country’s ability to provide more efficient public services and promote greater security and transparency.
Josiah Joekai, Director General of the Civil Servants Agency, representing President Joseph Boakai, stressed the need for a coordinated approach. “We need to view the NIR as a one-stop shop, a system where institutions such as the National Elections Commission and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can rely on accurate national data,” Joekai said.
The government is expected to engage with stakeholders to assess the feasibility of funding the NIR’s proposed nationwide registration process.
The event was attended by members of the standing committee on Autonomous Agencies at the legislature, members of the Executive, and local and international partners, among others.
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