The Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has described the Ghana Card as a critical tool for national inclusion and digital transformation, saying it now serves as a gateway to essential services such as finance, healthcare, telecommunications and public administration.
Speaking at the launch of the 20th Anniversary celebration of the National Identification Authority (NIA) in Accra, the Minister said the Authority had evolved significantly since its establishment in 2006, growing into a modern biometric identity system that supports national security and economic participation.
Addressing participants on the theme, “Reflecting on the Past, Securing the Future,” Hon. Muntaka said the journey of the NIA began under difficult circumstances, with limited resources and high public expectations, but has since become one of Ghana’s major institutional success stories.
“Today, the Ghana Card transcends its role as a mere identification document,” he stated, noting that the card now plays a central role in facilitating access to public and private sector services.
The Minister outlined three major priorities for the Authority moving forward. These include achieving universal registration coverage to ensure no Ghanaian is excluded, strengthening system integrity and data protection, and expanding innovation to make identity services more accessible and efficient.
He assured the NIA of the government’s continued support and urged staff and stakeholders to maintain high standards of professionalism while exploring new opportunities in identity management within the sub-region.
“Building a national identity system is an ongoing journey that must evolve alongside our people, economy and national aspirations,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the NIA, Mr. Wisdom Kwaku Deku, reflected on the Authority’s progress over the past two decades, highlighting its growing importance in governance and economic development.
He said the Authority remains committed to leveraging technology to improve operations and enhance service delivery, adding that the Ghana Card is intended to function as a practical and reliable identity tool for all sectors.
Mr. Deku thanked Ghanaians for their trust and support over the years and called for renewed commitment from staff and stakeholders to continue advancing the Authority’s mission with integrity and purpose.
