The Executive Director of the National Identification Registry (NIR), Andrew Peters, has launched a bold Five-Year Strategic Plan (2026–2030) aimed at ensuring that every Liberian and legal resident is recognized through a secure, trusted and inclusive national identification system. This, he said, marks a critical step toward building a digitally enabled and accountable state. Speaking Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at the official launch of the plan, Peters said the NIR sits at the heart of Liberia’s development ambitions, noting that without reliable identity, inclusion remains incomplete and national progress uneven.
The new strategy is aligned with the Government of Liberia’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, particularly its focus on digital transformation, financial inclusion and improved public sector accountability. Peters pointed out that a modern identification system is essential for effective delivery of social protection, healthcare, education, elections, financial services and national planning.
He acknowledged the gains of the NIR since its establishment through a 2011 Act of the Legislature, including biometric enrollment, issuance of National Identification Numbers (NINs), and growing institutional partnerships. However, he could not ignore persistent challenges.
These include low national coverage, weak infrastructure, institutional capacity gaps, evolving data protection demands, and fragile public trust.
Director Peters stated that the Five-Year Strategic Plan is anchored on six pillars that would address these issues, including universal coverage, strengthened governance and institutional capacity, digital ID modernization, infrastructure development, improved legal and data protection frameworks, and financial sustainability through partnerships. He indicated that the plan places citizens’ rights at the center of identity management, with a strong focus on reaching rural and underserved communities, protecting personal data, and rebuilding public confidence through transparency and service excellence.
The Executive Director of NIR stated that innovation, including digital IDs, mobile credentials, and interoperable platforms, will be pursued responsibly to strengthen inclusion, security, and trust.
However, Peters called for sustained political will, adequate public investment, and close collaboration with ministries, agencies, the private sector, civil society, and development partners to ensure the plan’s success. “Our commitment is clear. We will implement this Strategic Plan with integrity, professionalism, and accountability, ensuring that no one is left behind as Liberia builds the foundations of its digital future,” he said.
