Pader Locals Grateful as NIRA Brings ID Services to Their Doorstep

31 May 2025, 15:26

Residents register for national IDs as NIRA conducts outreach under tree shade.PHOTO/EKEL BONNY DANIEL

By Ekel Bonny Daniel

The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) is conducting its nationwide exercise to renew and register national identity cards, with operations in Pader District progressing smoothly and drawing positive feedback from the community.

The exercise targets two main categories: Ugandans applying for a national ID for the first time, and those whose IDs have expired or are nearing expiration. The activity is taking place at various sub-county and parish levels, as part of government efforts to decentralize services and make them more accessible, especially to rural populations.

Speaking to Rapa FM, Nuwamanya Dennis, the NIRA officer overseeing the Pader District operations, explained that the exercise is designed to accommodate both renewal and new registration needs.

“We are currently handling renewals for expired IDs and capturing first-time applicants who have never been registered. The process is ongoing, and we encourage the public to make use of this limited window,” Nuwamanya said.

He clarified that the renewal process is free, provided the applicant presents their expired national ID. For those who have lost their cards, a police report is required. A photocopy of the lost ID, though not mandatory, helps expedite the process.

“This first nationwide renewal is free of charge. But for lost IDs, a police letter is necessary,” he added.

For first-time applicants, two key documents are required: photocopies of both parents’ national IDs, and an LC1 letter from their area of residence, which must be endorsed by the GISO and stamped by the DISO at the district headquarters.

Nuwamanya on ID registration-Eng

Nuwamanya also emphasized the flexibility of the process, highlighting that Ugandans can register or renew their ID from any part of the country.

“You don’t have to go back to your home village. As long as there’s a NIRA machine, you can register or renew your ID,” he said.

A visit to the Pader Town Council office, one of the main registration centers, revealed residents taking advantage of the opportunity.

Akidi Lillian, a resident of Lagwai Parish, said her ID had expired in December 2023 but remained crucial for accessing government programs.

Lillian Akidi registers for a national ID as Palma Ajwang inputs her data. PHOTO/EKEL BONNY DANIEL.

“My expired ID helped me with PDM, Emyooga, and SIM card registration. I was worried until I heard about the renewal. I thank the government for this service,” she said.

Akidi on ID-Luo

Nyeko Charles, from Got-Olal Bar Dege, praised the process and staff.

“The renewal process was smooth and efficient. The NIRA staff were active and supportive, though the turnout was low. I encourage others to take part having a national ID is essential for accessing jobs and services today,” he said.

Nyeko on Encouragement-Luo

Aporo Alice, another local, noted that her ID has helped her in driving-related processes and new SIM card registration.

Aporo on Registration-Luo

Nuwamanya concluded with a strong call to action, urging all eligible citizens to take advantage of the ongoing national ID registration and renewal exercise.

“This is a field-based outreach, and it won’t last forever. We urge people to come early while we’re still at their parishes,” he said.

Nuwamanya on Outreach-Eng

The NIRA exercise in Pader is part of a broader national effort to enhance citizen identification, ensuring that every Ugandan has access to essential services tied to the national ID system.

The exercise is expected to run for up to ten months, targeting over 33 million Ugandans, including first-time applicants and those renewing expired national identity cards.

Launched by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) on May 27, 2025, the nationwide registration aims to ensure all eligible citizens are documented ahead of the 2026 general elections.

NIRA has deployed over 5,300 biometric kits across all parishes and encouraged the public to use the online pre-registration portal to streamline the process.