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Unclaimed ID cards spark concern at immigration offices

Sep 15, 2025, 11:45 AM | Article By: Isatou Ceesay Bah

Thousands of uncollected national identity cards and driver’s licences continue to pile up at Immigration Department offices across the country, raising alarm among government officials about the reluctance of citizens to claim their processed documents.
National identity cards are a vital requirement for Gambian citizens, serving as proof of citizenship, enabling access to public and private services, and supporting government functions such as security and social planning. Despite the Immigration Department’s large-scale efforts to process and produce ID cards and driver’s licences in regional offices, a significant number remain unclaimed.

During a recent assessment at the Kanifing office and other stations, officials confirmed that uncollected documents pose a persistent challenge.

Deputy Permanent Secretary for Administration and Finance at the Ministry of Interior, Mr. Abraham K. Mendy, voiced concern over the situation, urging applicants to promptly collect their cards.

“An official identity is not just a card; it is the gateway to essential services and a safeguard of one’s rights as a citizen. We encourage Gambians to collect their documents without delay,” Mr. Mendy stressed.

The Director General of Immigration, Mr. Ebrima Mboob, echoed similar concerns, noting that both Gambians and non-Gambians have failed to retrieve their processed documents. He emphasised that the department has invested in improving service delivery and accessibility, but the effectiveness of these measures depends on citizens collecting their cards.

“We are introducing new initiatives to ensure that applicants follow through and collect their IDs. This is not just about convenience; it is about strengthening our national identity framework and building a more efficient system,” Mr. Mboob said.

The Ministry of Interior believes that resolving the backlog of uncollected cards will enhance the efficiency of the Immigration Department, improve planning and security, and reinforce the government’s commitment to service delivery.

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