In a significant move towards enhancing identification systems for Ghanaians abroad, the National Identification Authority (NIA) of Ghana is set to pilot the registration of Ghanaian citizens in Ottawa, Canada. This initiative aims to extend the reach of the Ghana Card, a key national identification tool, to Ghanaians living outside the country. The effort reflects the growing importance of seamless digital identity management in today’s globalized world.

A 10-member team from the NIA will travel to Ottawa to kickstart the program. The exercise, mandated by the NIA Act 2008 (Act 750), will serve as a pilot project, with plans to expand to other cities including Toronto, Washington, and New Jersey. These teams will collaborate with Ghana’s missions abroad, utilizing the local consulates and embassies as registration centers

The registration will not only provide Ghanaians living abroad with a verified national identity, but it will also facilitate their access to essential services like banking, voting, and healthcare. The NIA’s effort aligns with the growing demand for robust national identification systems, as digital services continue to dominate various sectors of the global economy.

Through this initiative, the NIA is enhancing public awareness and training local mission staff to handle the registration process. The pilot program marks a crucial first step in ensuring that the Ghana Card becomes a truly universal ID for all citizens, whether residing in Ghana or abroad