MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), the government agency responsible for issuing Somalia’s National Identity Card, has announced that the current free registration period will end on October 31, 2025.
Starting from November 1, 2025, citizens will be required to pay a fee to obtain their National ID.
In an official statement released this week, NIRA urged all eligible Somali citizens to take advantage of the remaining days of the fee exemption period. The statement emphasized the urgency of the matter, saying:
“The National ID Card Registration Fee Exemption Period ends on October 31st. We urge all citizens to utilize this opportunity and register at the nearest NIRA center before the deadline.”
While NIRA did confirm the end of the free registration period, it has not yet provided detailed information regarding whether all applications submitted before the deadline will be processed free of charge—even if the ID is issued after October 31.
The exact amount of the future registration fee has not been disclosed.
Long Queues and Allegations of Corruption
The announcement has led to large crowds forming at NIRA registration centers across the country. Many citizens, concerned about future costs and possible delays, are rushing to complete their registration before the deadline.
Amid the surge in demand, NIRA has acknowledged reports of irregularities and potential corruption at some registration centers. Specifically, there have been claims that individuals are being asked to pay bribes in exchange for faster service.
In response, NIRA has announced that it will increase inspections at ID registration centers to ensure transparency and prevent illegal practices.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to fair and lawful service for all citizens.
To address the growing concerns, NIRA has introduced a dedicated short code and complaint hotline for citizens to report any instances of bribery, misconduct, or unlawful detention related to the ID registration process.