Martin Mbarga Nguelle, the Delegate General of National Security, announced that national identification cards will now be produced and issued within 48 hours. This transformative change will begin on February 17, 2025, marking a significant departure from the long-standing delays that have plagued the system.
Mbarga Nguelle made this revelation in Yaoundé on Friday, January 31, during a New Year Wishes Ceremony with the Centralized Services of the National Police Corps. He highlighted two crucial dates in the implementation of the new system;
“On February 17, 2025, we shall launch of online pre-enrolment operations, following a procedure similar to that of the biometric passport system. On February 24, 2025, we shall commence with the physical enrolment at identification posts in regional headquarters, where ID cards will be issued within 48 hours of application,” he affirmed.
Addressing the Backlog
The Delegate General reassured the public that individuals with temporary identification from the previous system, whose personal data remains intact, will receive their National ID cards processed under the new system before the February 17 launch date.
Efforts are underway to tackle concerns about double identification and age fraud. Regional delegations of national security collect complaints, calling affected individuals for verification and enrolment. The initiative ensures that all Cameroonians of voting age can register on the electoral list before the country’s crucial elections in 2025.
The police chief also regrets that approximately 385,000 valid national ID cards sit abandoned at identification posts across the country.
Enhancing National Security
With 2025 being an electoral year, Mbarga Nguelle emphasized the heightened responsibility of security forces in safeguarding national stability. He instructed the police to maintain close surveillance on potential threats to public order and to adopt a proactive approach to law enforcement.
“The police must be vigilant and ready to counter any activities that could jeopardize the serenity of Cameroonians,” he stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to preserving order.
Security forces will further intensify efforts against criminal activities in both urban and rural areas. This involves a renewed effort to address emerging security threats like terrorism, improvised explosive devices, drug trafficking, cybercriminal activity, and organised crime. We will prioritise continuous training to enhance police capabilities in maintaining order and combating sophisticated security challenges.
