The National Identification Authority (NIA) has officially announced the commencement of Ghana Card issuance for children aged 6 to 14 years, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s national identification drive. The exercise begins on Monday, October 6, 2025, and forms part of the Authority’s ongoing efforts to expand the national identity coverage to all citizens, including minors.
In a statement released by the National Identification Authority, it was revealed that the initial phase of the Ghana Card distribution will take place across 56 districts nationwide. This phase is specifically targeted at children who have already completed the registration process. The Authority explained that the cards will be distributed at the same schools where the initial registration exercise was conducted, ensuring convenience and accessibility for both parents and pupils.
To collect the cards, each child must be physically present and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The NIA emphasized that this requirement is a crucial part of the verification process to ensure the authenticity and security of the card issuance. Parents or guardians are also expected to present the registration receipt (Form A) that was issued on the day of registration to facilitate smooth identification and collection.
The National Identification Authority reassured the public that it has successfully cleared all backlogs of unprinted Ghana Cards, paving the way for an uninterrupted distribution process. This development comes as a relief to many parents who had expressed concerns over delays in the printing and issuance of cards for their wards.
According to the NIA, this child issuance program represents a crucial step toward achieving comprehensive national identity coverage. By integrating children into the Ghana Card system early, the Authority aims to create a robust and inclusive identity database that will enhance data accuracy, planning, and public service delivery in the future.
Furthermore, the NIA disclosed that after the initial 56 districts are covered, the exercise will be expanded to remaining districts across the country in subsequent phases. This approach is intended to ensure an organized and efficient rollout while preventing overcrowding at collection centers. The Authority added that further announcements will be made soon regarding new registration dates for children within this same age group who may not have registered earlier.
In its statement, the National Identification Authority appealed to all parents and guardians to cooperate fully with the exercise to ensure its success. The NIA emphasized the importance of timely card collection and adherence to guidelines to avoid delays or confusion at the distribution centers.
The Authority also assured the public that adequate logistical arrangements and trained personnel have been deployed to manage the issuance process smoothly. Measures have been put in place to maintain order and ensure that every eligible child receives their card without unnecessary difficulty.
The Ghana Card, which serves as the country’s primary identity document, has become increasingly vital for accessing government and private services, including education, healthcare, banking, and telecommunications. By extending issuance to children, the National Identification Authority is taking a forward-thinking step toward strengthening Ghana’s identity management system and ensuring that every citizen, regardless of age, is accounted for in the national database.
This initiative aligns with Ghana’s broader digital transformation agenda and supports long-term national planning and development goals. The NIA’s ongoing efforts are expected to enhance social inclusion, reduce identity fraud, and promote data-driven governance across all sectors.
The Authority concluded by reaffirming its commitment to ensuring a transparent, efficient, and inclusive identification process, urging the public to stay informed through official communication channels for future updates on registration and issuance schedules.
The National Identification Authority’s rollout of Ghana Card issuance for children marks a transformative step in strengthening Ghana’s identity infrastructure and ensuring that the next generation is digitally and legally recognized from an early age.
