The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Association of Banks (GAB) has urged the National Identification Authority (NIA) to review how Ghana Cards are being issued, after observing what he described as troubling signs that the card is being obtained by people who may not be eligible.
Posting on Facebook over the weekend, the CEO questioned how groups of non‑Ghanaians were turning up at banks carrying Ghana Cards. He said many of them could not communicate in any Ghanaian language or even identify hometowns, yet still possessed cards meant for citizens.
“How come so many non‑Ghanaians are showing up at banks with Ghana Card? Some are coming to our banks in buses; they don’t speak any Ghanaian language, most can’t even mention their hometowns yet they have Ghana Card,” he wrote.
Card Meant for Citizens
The Ghana Card, issued by the NIA, is meant to serve as the single source of identity for Ghanaians and is now required for almost every essential service, including opening bank accounts, SIM registration, passport applications and tax filings. With its growing importance, any question about how it is issued carries significant implications for the country’s financial system and national identity.
The CEO reminded the NIA that the card was created for Ghanaian citizens and warned that issuing it to those who do not qualify undermines its credibility and the public’s trust.
“They are not being issued Ghana Card for non‑Ghanaians but the one that is reserved for Ghanaians which is very inappropriate,” he noted.
He further cautioned that internal lapses, or outright misconduct, could erode confidence in the entire system, stressing:
“Please do not let the few greedy NIA staff put the whole system at risk. If we lose Ghana Card to greed, what becomes of our identity as Ghanaians?”
The CEO also highlighted the disparity between citizens who still struggle to obtain their cards and the speed with which some non‑Ghanaians seemed to be acquiring them.
“At a time when some Ghanaians are struggling to get their cards, non‑Ghanaians are getting it on a silver platter and in groups,” he said.
Risks for the Financial Sector
As the head of the banking association, the CEO warned that improperly issued cards could be exploited by fraud networks, posing risks to banks and customers alike.
“These cards issued are being used by fraud syndicates to defraud Ghanaians. There are far‑reaching implications for personal greed of individuals. Do the right thing!”
He further urged the NIA to act swiftly to tighten its processes and restore public confidence in the Ghana Card system, warning: “SIT UP, NIA. This is becoming a National Disaster!”
