The National Identification Authority (NIA) has issued a set of guidelines for the Security, Storage and Retention of Personal Information obtained from the National Identity Register (NIR) effective Thursday, 19th March 2026.
The guidelines were issued in accordance with Sections 59 and 6 1 of the National Identity Register Act, 2008 (Act 750), as amended by the National Identity Register (Amendment) Act, 2017 (Act 950),
which mandate the National Identification Authority (NIA) to provide guidance to user agencies on the storage, security, retention and disposal of personal information obtained from the National
Identity Register (NIR) and prescribe retention periods for personal information used by user agencies for administrative purposes.
According to the Public Relationd Officer of NIA, Darlas Ampomah William, the guidlines seek to ensure that personal information is stored and retained securely and only for as long as necessary,promote responsible management of personal information,minimize the risks of unauthorized access, misuse, or loss of data; and ensure compliance with Ghanaian law and alignment with international standards on data protection and information security.
The National Identification Authority (NIA) was established by the National Identification Authority Act, 2006 (Act 707). Its mandate is to create, maintain, provide and promote the use of national identity cards in order to advance economic, political and social activities in Ghana.
The NIA collects personal data of Ghanaians living in Ghana and abroad and all permanently-resident foreign nationals and issues them with Ghana Cards.
NIA also ensures the accuracy, integrity, confidentiality and security of personal data it collects and makes personal data in its custody available to persons or institutions authorised by law to access the data.
