Las Anod, Somalia – In a move underscoring Somalia’s push for institutional strengthening and transparent governance, the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) began issuing National ID cards to newly elected Northeastern State lawmakers on Sunday.
The exercise, overseen by NIRA General Director Abdiwali Ali Abdulle, marked a significant milestone for the region’s political and administrative development. The lawmakers are among the first to be formally registered and documented through Somalia’s new national identification system, which aims to enhance security, combat identity fraud, and improve service delivery.
Speaking during the event, Abdulle emphasized that the registration of state representatives is not only a technical process but also a symbol of Somalia’s broader efforts to build a cohesive national identity.
“Issuing IDs to elected leaders reinforces accountability and sets an example for citizens to follow,” he said.
Officials highlighted that the initiative supports ongoing government efforts to stabilize Las Anod and other areas of Northeastern State by promoting representation, legitimacy, and trust in public institutions. Analysts note that secure and verifiable identification is also vital for future electoral processes, economic reforms, and counter-terrorism measures.
The rollout comes at a critical time, as the federal government prioritizes national security and regional empowerment in historically contested areas. By equipping lawmakers with official IDs, the administration aims to strengthen state institutions and bridge gaps between federal structures and local governance.
Community members welcomed the development, expressing hope that it will contribute to improved stability, transparency, and inclusion across the region.