NIA Offices Remain Closed as PSWU Strike Enters Day Two, Disrupting Ghana Card Services Nationwide
The indefinite strike by workers of the National Identification Authority (NIA) has entered its second day, leaving many Ghana Card applicants stranded as registration centres across the country remain largely shut.
The industrial action, declared by NIA staff under the Public Services Workers’ Union (PSWU), began on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, over unresolved concerns regarding conditions of service.
NIA Offices Locked, Services Severely Affected
A visit to the NIA’s Greater Accra Regional Office on Thursday, May 14, revealed locked offices, empty waiting areas, and deserted canopies, highlighting the significant disruption to public services.
The strike has affected core NIA operations, including:
- New Ghana Card registrations
- Card replacements
- Personal data updates
- Collection of printed cards
Although a few non-union staff members are reportedly working, services are operating at a minimal level.
A staff member who spoke anonymously said some offices remain partially functional, but capacity is severely reduced.
“Operations are still ongoing at some branches, but only with skeletal staff who are not members of the PSWU,” the staff member disclosed.
Applicants Frustrated as Ghana Card Processing Stalls
The closure has caused frustration among applicants who rely on the Ghana Card for banking, SIM registration, passport applications, and access to government services.
Several applicants appealed to the government and NIA management to resolve the dispute quickly.
One applicant said:
“They should return to the negotiation table instead of leaving the whole country stranded. Many of us urgently need our Ghana Cards.”
Another applicant urged authorities to meet the workers’ demands.
“The government should address their concerns so they can return to work. We need our cards.”
National Labour Commission Steps In
The National Labour Commission (NLC) is expected to convene a meeting at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 14, involving NIA management, union leaders, and other stakeholders to arbitrate the ongoing dispute.
The outcome of the meeting is expected to determine whether the strike will continue or if normal services will resume.
Why the Ghana Card Matters
The Ghana Card remains a critical identification document for citizens and residents, serving as a prerequisite for:
- Opening bank accounts
- Registering SIM cards
- Accessing government services
- Passport applications
- Tax identification
Any prolonged disruption at the NIA could affect thousands of applicants and slow down multiple public and private sector processes.
Growing Pressure on Government
With the strike now in its second day, pressure is mounting on the government to intervene and restore full operations at NIA offices nationwide.
Many Ghanaians are hopeful that the National Labour Commission’s intervention will lead to a swift resolution and bring Ghana Card services back to normal.
