News
NIA opens Premium Centres to register children
The National Identification Authority (NIA) has started registering Ghanaian children aged between six and 14 years at all its Premium Centres across the country.
The Authority says the exercise is part of its duty to register every Ghanaian, both at home and abroad, so that all citizens can have a secure and verifiable national identity.
It explained in a statement issued today that the registration will help build a complete and inclusive National Identity Register (NIR) that captures every Ghanaian from childhood.
According to the NIA, the fee for first-time registration at Premium Centres is GHS 310, which is the approved charge for premium services.
The Authority said the requirements are the same as for applicants aged 15 years and above.
It affirmed that Parents or legal guardians were required to present either a valid Ghanaian passport of the child, the original copy of the child’s birth certificate, or be a Ghana Card holder who can vouch for the child.
The NIA also announced that from Monday, September 15, 2025, its online registration and booking system will be extended to the remaining 11 Premium Centres nationwide.
This it said will allow parents and guardians to schedule appointments more conveniently and avoid delays at the centres.
It further stated that information on the issuance of Ghana Cards for children aged six to 14 years who had already registered will be shared later.
In the coming weeks, the Authority plans to extend this registration service to all NIA District Offices to make it easier for more people to access the service.
By: Jacob Aggrey
News
We can fight Galamsey without declaring a state of emergency – President Mahama insists
President John Dramani Mahama has ruled out the need to declare a state of emergency in dealing with illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey in the interim.
Addressing journalists at a media encounter at the Flagstaff House, the President said the government has put in place practical measures to combat the menace without suspending normal constitutional processes.
He explained that over 600 “Blue River Guards” have already been trained and deployed to patrol water bodies and destroy equipment used for galamsey.
He added that more personnel will be recruited to protect forest reserves and rivers that serve as water sources for communities.
President Mahama stressed that illegal mining remains a major threat to the environment and water supply, but insisted that strong enforcement and community participation can address the problem without resorting to emergency powers.
“I have been reluctant to declare a state of emergency on galamsey because it should be our last resort in the fight against it,” President Mahama said.
He stressed that state of emergency should be the last resort, and if it becomes necessary, he will go to Parliament
He assured Ghanaians of government’s commitment to protect natural resources while ensuring livelihoods are preserved.
By: Jacob Aggrey
News
NSB to track and arrest individuals who incite violence and hate speech online
President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the National Signals Bureau (NSB) will begin monitoring social media platforms and other online spaces to track down individuals who incite violence or spread hate speech.
Speaking during a media encounter at the Flagstaff House, the President said the move is to protect national security and safeguard citizens from dangerous online activities.
He explained that hate speech, fake news, and violent messages on the internet often fuel tension and can lead to conflicts if left unchecked.
President Mahama stated that persons found guilty of using online platforms to encourage violence or spread divisive messages will be arrested and prosecuted under the laws of Ghana.
He also urged Ghanaians to use social media responsibly and avoid posting or sharing content that could threaten peace and unity.
He further encouraged the public to report suspicious online activities to the authorities for prompt action.
The President stressed that while government respects freedom of speech, such freedoms must be exercised responsibly to ensure national security and social harmony.
By: Jacob Aggrey
