THE National Identity (NID) Project is deploying mobile (handheld) biometric android devices to help government departments and agencies authenticate client identity.
Minister for Internal Security, Hon. Peter Tsiamalili said this while outlining the benefits of the new devices.
“These new devices can read NID cards and authenticate the fingerprint of a person and determine if the presenter of the NID card is who he or she claims to be. This applies only to adults of 18 years and over who have an NID card,” the Minister said.
He said the new devices are progressively being rolled out, with the first device handed over to Chief Migration Officer Mr Stanis Hulahau in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso recently.
“Enabling government agencies to utilise NID technology will help safeguard our nation. With the new device, the Immigration and Citizenship Authority can authenticate a passport applicant before accepting an application,” he said.
Minister Tsiamalili also outlined plans to ensure that 95% of the nation’s population has an NID card by 2025.
“This is an ambitious target, but I am confident we can deliver,” he said.
The Minister said the NID project was a key government priority.
“As we continue to enhance our systems and issue NID cards to people across the country, we will start to see long term benefits. The card will support the delivery of government services and enable businesses to authenticate customer identity.
“The NID card will also be an important tool when we conduct the 2027 national election and this is why all leaders must ensure that work to deliver the NID project continues at pace,” Tsiamalili said.
The Minister made note of work to complete NID registrations in Yangoru Sausia District and Unngai-Benna District.
