By Kodjo Adams
Accra, Aug. 13, GNA – The National Identification Authority (NIA) has introduced 24-hour Ghana Card registration services to improve access to identification services beyond normal working hours.
The service, operated from the NIA’s Prestige Centre, runs three shifts and allows applicants to access Ghana Card services, including at weekends.
Mr Wisdom Kwaku Deku, Executive Secretary of the NIA, said the initiative was intended to make Ghana Card services more accessible and convenient, particularly for workers and others unable to visit registration centres during regular working hours.
“We don’t want the situation whereby it is the weekend and somebody has to access services and you cannot access any other services,” he said.
The centre operated in three shifts from 0700 hours to 1500 hours, 1500 hours to 2300 hours and 2300 hours to 0700 hours.
Services available at the centre include first-time Ghana Card registration, replacement of cards and updating of personal information.
Mr Deku said the initiative formed part of a broader government programme to expand access to Ghana Card services, with additional centres expected to be opened across the country.
“Two more centres are expected to open in the Ashanti Region during the weekend, while applications are being processed for more than 20 centres nationwide.
“The expansion is expected to create more than 120 jobs through partnerships between the NIA and private entities,” he said.
He explained that while private partners provided the buildings and spaces for the centres, the NIA remained responsible for security, equipment and personnel.
On fees and the registration process, Mr Deku said the Prestige service attracted an initial registration fee of GH¢360, with an additional GH¢250 service charge for the 24-hour service.
He said applicants were encouraged to begin the process online, including completing their registration and making payments through the NIA’s online platform.
Applicants who completed the pre-registration process only needed to visit the centre for biometric capture and issuance of their Ghana Cards.
“For applicants who walk into the centre without completing the online process, front-desk personnel assist them to initiate the application online before they proceed to biometric capture and card issuance,” he said.
Mr Deku said applicants who had completed the online registration could receive their cards within approximately five to 10 minutes after biometric capture, subject to completion of the required processes.
He said payments were to be made electronically, stressing that the Authority did not accept physical cash for the service.
On patronage, Mr Deku said the initiative had received encouraging response since the first Prestige Centre began operations on Aug. 1, 2026.
“As of August 12, about 261 people had accessed registration services at the centre, with some applicants reportedly visiting as late as 9 p.m,” he said.
The Authority expressed optimism that increased public awareness would lead to greater patronage, noting that many Ghanaians were still unaware that the 24-hour service was available.
Ms Afia Asantewaa, who brought her mother to the facility for registration, described the service as excellent.
“We are impressed with the service; we spent a few minutes at the facility and had our Ghana card.
“The procedure is not complicated. The officials assisted us to fill out the registration forms, and everything was smooth,” she said.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey
Reporter: Kodjo Adams
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