The National Identification Authority (NIA) has begun prosecuting foreign nationals accused of illegally attempting to acquire the Ghana Card, warning that offenders will face severe consequences, including imprisonment and deportation.
According to the Authority, the move follows multiple reports from financial institutions and members of the public about suspicious attempts by non-citizens to infiltrate the national identification system.
Following this, one person has been convicted and is currently serving an eight-month prison sentence, while some 13 pending cases, including the one involving seven Nigerian nationals, are being actively pursued. Authorities say those convicted will be deported after serving their terms.
“We’ve got reports from individuals, some financial institutions and well-meaning Ghanaians that some foreigners in the past few weeks have been scanning our registration centres to ostensibly get access onto our citizen register. As we speak we’ve been able to convict one who is serving 8 months jail term. We have thirteen more cases under active investigation. Just last week, we went to the Dansoman Circuit Court with about 7 Nigerians who attempted to register for the citizen card. God willing on 6th August, Wednesday, we are reappearing with them, and we’re hopeful we’ll get conviction and convict these guys to prison. All the convictions after they are done serving their terms, they will be deported to their home countries,” said Williams Ampomah Emmanuel Darlas, Head of Corporate Affairs at the NIA.
The National Identification Authority (NIA) has confirmed the payment of the 20% Operational Support Allowance owed to its staff for the period January to July 2025.
This development comes in the wake of a nationwide strike by NIA staff, triggered by the Ministry of Finance’s failure to provide a clear commitment or timeline for the payment of the allowance — the only benefit staff receive in addition to their basic salary.
Speaking at a media briefing, the Head of Corporate Affairs at the NIA, Williams Ampomah Emmanuel Darlas, announced that all outstanding arrears have now been cleared.
“I’m happy to announce that the 20% Staff Operational Allowance is been paid and the arrears from January to July has been cleared.”
He expressed gratitude to staff and stakeholders for their patience and support during the industrial action.
“The NIA was established to manage a credible, secure, and universal identity system. We assure the public that our systems remain robust and fully compliant with legal and data protection standards,” he said.
The government of Ghana under the leadership of President John Dramani mahama has taken a paramount step towards empowering Ghana’s burgeoning youth population.
President John Dramani Mahama’s government has allocated GH₵110 million for the operationalization of the Adwumawura Programme.
‘Adwumawura’ is a transformative initiative designed to tackle the pervasive challenge of youth unemployment and catalyze innovation. It is touted as a paramount step towards empowering Ghana’s burgeoning youth population.
The allocation; facilitated by the Minister of Finance underscores the NDC’s unrelenting dedication to empowering young Ghanaians through strategic job creation and entrepreneurship initiatives
“In a further prove to the government’s unrelenting support for youth empowerment, an amount of GH₵110 million has been allocated this year for the nationwide rollout of the Adwumawura Programme,” the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, said during the Government Accountability Series on Monday, August 4.
“This significant financial commitment sends a powerful message that we are not merely articulating intentions; rather, we are investing in the future of our youth and recalibrating the trajectory of our nation.”
Launched with great fanfare by President Mahama on April 28 at the prestigious Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi, the Adwumawura Programme is an ambitious endeavor aimed at creating, mentoring, and supporting a minimum of 10,000 businesses annually, targeting enterprising young Ghanaians between the ages of 18 and 35. Beneficiaries of this visionary program will receive comprehensive support, encompassing entrepreneurship training, access to startup capital, cutting-edge equipment, and expert business mentorship.
Mr. Opare Addo underscored that this pioneering initiative transcends mere job creation, seeking to establish sustainable enterprises that will contribute meaningfully to national development while unlocking the vast potential of Ghana’s youthful population.
This monumental investment in youth empowerment is set to have a profound impact on the lives of countless young Ghanaians, providing them with the requisite tools and support to succeed in their entrepreneurial pursuits.
Comrades, as the Adwumawura Programme begins to take shape, it is anticipated that it will become a game-changer in Ghana’s youth empowerment landscape, yielding a new generation of innovative entrepreneurs and business leaders who will drive the nation’s economic growth and development.
In the ensuing case between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the National Identification Authority (NIA) over unpaid service fees, GRA has clarified that the said past transactions lack the necessary regulatory and governance approvals required for payment.
GRA noted in a press release issued by the Communication and Public Affairs Department, that the so-called debt stems from a legacy arrangement made prior to 2025.
It, however, expressed surprise over recent media reports and public statements by the NIA which alleged that GRA was disconnected from the NIA’s Identity Verification System (IVS) due to unpaid fees. Emphasizing that, its operations are guided by transparency and compliance with governance protocols, in line with the current administration’s “reset” vision. As such, the Authority cannot act on transactions that fall outside regulatory frameworks.
The release also revealed that the NIA has long operated desk offices within GRA premises nationwide, registering individuals and issuing Ghana Cards without paying rent or utility fees. Despite this, GRA insists it remains committed to inter-agency cooperation and ongoing high-level discussions aimed at resolving the issue.
While GRA has identified procedural breaches and the absence of a formal service agreement, it reiterated its readiness to collaborate with NIA to integrate the Ghana Card into the tax system.
GRA concluded by reassuring taxpayers and the public of its unwavering commitment to fairness, integrity, service, and national development.
Below is the full statement from GRA:
5th August, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RE-NIA DISCONNECTS GRA FROM IDENTITY VERIFICATION PLATFORM OVER UNPAID FEES
The attention of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has been drawn to recent media reports and public statements by the National Identification Authority (NIA), alleging GRA’s indebtedness to the NIA leading to disconnecting GRA from their Identity Verification Platform (IVS).
GRA expresses great surprise to the averments made by NIA and wishes to clarify the issue as follows:
• There appears to be a Legacy Debt inherited as a result of some services rendered to the Authority by NIA prior to 2025.
• From the GRA’s present assessment, there were no regulatory and governance
approvals for the transaction that created the purported debt. GRA’s principles of
transparency, compliance and governance protocols do not permit enforcement of
transactions that do not meet regulatory requirements, particularly as demanded
by the reset vision of the President and the Government.
• As part of the existing arrangements between the two agencies, NIA was allowed and had set up their desk offices at GRA premises nation-wide where they register individuals and issue them with the National Identification cards without paying rent and utilities to the GRA for years.
• There are current high-level discussions between the two agencies in resolving the
issues particularly where GRA has identified some procedural breaches and
cannot affirm the existence of a service agreement between the parties.
• GRA acknowledges the importance of inter-agency collaboration in achieving
national objectives, including the integration of the Ghana Card into the tax system.
In this regard, GRA extends collaborative hands to NIA while emphasing the need
to improve our cordial relationship and resolve matters amicably.
• GRA uses this opportunity to reassure taxpayers and the general public of its
commitment and adherence to its values of fairness, integrity, responsiveness,
service and teamwork.
ISSUED BY: COMMUNICATION & PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
ACCRA, GHANA – August 7, 2025 – The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) is deeply saddened by the tragic helicopter crash that occurred on the morning of Wednesday, August 6, 2025, near Adansi Sikaman in the Ashanti Region. The crash claimed the lives of eight distinguished Ghanaians, including senior government officials and military personnel.
PRINPAG extends its heartfelt condolences to the President of the Republic, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, the Government of Ghana, the bereaved families, the Ghana Armed Forces, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and all Ghanaians affected by this devastating national tragedy.
The nation has suffered a profound loss with the deaths of dedicated public servants, including Dr. Omane-Boamah and Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. We also mourn the untimely passing of the other six individuals on board: Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Mr. Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Bafimi Anala, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo-Mensah. Their contributions to our nation will not be forgotten.
In the wake of this tragedy, PRINPAG urges all journalists, particularly its members, to exercise the utmost responsibility and sensitivity in their reportage. We must remember that behind every name is a family grieving a loved one. We implore our colleagues to avoid sensationalism, respect the privacy of the bereaved families, and report only accurate, verified information. This is a time for national mourning, and we must uphold the highest standards of journalistic ethics and professionalism.
PRINPAG stands in solidarity with the nation in mourning this irreplaceable loss. We call on the general public to allow the bereaved families space to grieve in peace and encourage all Ghanaians to keep them in their thoughts and prayers.
May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace.
Mwihoko, Kiambu County – A Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) military helicopter has crashed in Mwihoko, Githurai area on Thursday afternoon, August 7, with several people feared dead, according to eyewitnesses and initial reports.
Eyewitnesses Report Loud Explosion
Residents in the area reported hearing a loud explosion around 15:10 PM followed by smoke rising from a nearby thicket. A quick response team including firefighters, Kenya Red Cross, and KDF officers was dispatched to the scene.
“We heard a huge bang and rushed to the scene. The chopper was already on fire and several bodies could be seen,” said a resident who arrived minutes after the crash.
Military and Emergency Response
The Kenya Defence Forces has not yet released an official statement, but sources indicate that the aircraft was on a routine training flight when it lost control and crashed. Initial reports suggest there were military personnel on board, though the number of casualties remains unconfirmed.
Authorities have cordoned off the area to allow for investigations and recovery efforts. Emergency response teams are working to contain the fire and search for survivors.
Investigation Launched
The Ministry of Defence is expected to issue a full statement on the incident. Preliminary investigations will look into possible technical malfunctions or weather-related complications that could have contributed to the crash.
Previous Similar Incidents
This is not the first time a KDF aircraft has been involved in an accident. In June 2021, a KDF helicopter crashed in Kajiado County during training, killing several officers. The Mwihoko crash raises fresh concerns about the state and maintenance of military aircraft in Kenya.
Public Advised to Stay Away
Authorities are urging members of the public to stay away from the crash site to allow emergency services to operate effectively and safely.
This is a developing story. More updates to follow on Kenya News.
Following the devastating national tragedy that shook Ghana in the helicopter crash that claimed all eight people aboard including two Ministers of State and six other prominent officials and military officers.
Many nationals and international bodies have sent their condolence messages to Ghana. Among them are the United Nations, African Union, Islamic Republic of Iran, United State of America, Germany and Indonesia.
This comes as the President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, has declared a three-day national mourning period starting Thursday, August 7, 2025, in honour of the fallen state officials.
In a statement signed by presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the President also announced the suspension of all his official activities for the rest of the week as the nation comes to terms with the heartbreaking loss.
Among the deceased are key public figures, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Alhaji Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, NDC Vice-Chair Samuel Sarpong, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed, and Deputy Director-General of Protocol and Relief at the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Samuel Aboagye.
The Ghana Air Force crew members who perished have been identified as Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Chief of Staff receives remains of helicopter crash victims
The Ghana Armed Forces solemnly welcomed the bodies of personnel who perished in the tragic helicopter crash during a routine mission
A solemn and emotionally charged atmosphere enveloped the Air Force Base in Accra on Wednesday night as the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, led a high-powered government delegation to receive the mortal remains of the eight flown in from the crash site in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, accompanied by heavy military escort and dignified silence.
As the coffins—each draped in the red, gold, green, and black star of the national flag—were offloaded from the military aircraft, grief was etched on every face.
The Chief of Staff stood alongside senior military commanders, ministers of state, party executives, and members of the clergy to formally receive the bodies.
Prayers were offered for the repose of the souls of the eight individuals who lost their lives while on duty for their country.
Ghanaians are united in sorrow
Across the country, Ghanaians have continued to express their shock and sorrow.
Vigils have sprung up spontaneously in communities, while thousands have taken to social media to pay tribute and call for support for the bereaved families.
The military and relevant civil aviation authorities have commenced investigations into the cause of the crash.
As the remains of the eight national heroes lie in state, Ghana pauses to mourn—not just the lives lost, but the ideals of service, courage, and patriotism that they embodied.
The state awaits announcement of funeral arrangements from the presidency.
CONDOLENCE MESSAGES:
Council of State Message
Read full statement from the Council of State:
Message of Condolence on the Tragic Helicopter Crash in Adansi Akrofuom District.
The Council of State has learned with deep sorrow and profound shock of the tragic military helicopter crash that occurred on Wednesday, 6th August 2025, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, claiming the lives of eight patrotic Ghanaians.
The deceased are:
1. Hon. Dr. Edward Omane Boamah Minister for Defence
2. Hon. Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation
3. Dr. Samuel Sarpong – National Vice Chairman of the NDC
4. Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
5. Mr.Samuel Aboagye – Former NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Obuasi East
6. Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala
7. Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu
8. Sergeant Ernest Addo
This heartbreaking incident is a national tragedy and a painful loss to the entire nation.
The Council of State extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved families, the Government and people of Ghana, Parliament of Ghana, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the leadership and membership of the NDC. We share in the grief and mourn the loss of these patriotic individuals who served our country with honour, diligence, and devotion and paid the ultimate price in the course of duty.
At this moment of national mourning, we call on all Ghanaians to unite in prayer and solidarity, and to uphold the values of service and sacrifice that these fallen heroes embodied. May their souls rest in perfect peace, and may their families find strength and comfort during this difficult time.
Dated this 6th day of August 2025
Signed,
RT. HON. DOE ADJAНО
CHAIRMAN OF THE COUNCIL OF STATE
African Union Message:
Statement by the Chairperson of the African Union Commission on the Tragic Helicopter Crash in Ghana
August 06, 2025
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has learned with deep sorrow of the tragic helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region of the Republic of Ghana, which claimed the lives of eight people, including Ghana’s Minister of Defence, Hon. Edward Omane Boamah, and Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
The Chairperson conveys his heartfelt condolences to H.E. President John Dramani Mahama, the Government and people of Ghana, and the bereaved families of all those who lost their lives in this national tragedy. He also expresses his solidarity with the Ghana Armed Forces and the ruling National Democratic Congress during this difficult time.
H.E. Mr. Youssouf stated, “The African Union stands in full solidarity with Ghana in mourning this profound loss. May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace.”
For media inquiries, please contact:
Mr. Nuur Mohamud Sheekh I Spokesperson of the Chairperson I African Union Commission I Email: SheekhN@AfricanUnion.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
U.S. Government Message:
U.S. Department of State: Bureau of African Affairs
“The United States expresses its condolences to President John Dramani Mahama and the people and government of Ghana on the eight tragic deaths in today’s helicopter crash. We are united in prayer for the families of the victims and the people of Ghana.” -Tammy Bruce Spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State
United Nations (UN) Message:
MOURNING OF THE GHANA AIRFORCE HELICOPTER TRAGEDY
It is with profound sorrow that we receive the tragic news of the fatal crash involving the Ghana Airforce Z9 helicopter, claiming the lives of distinguished Government of Ghana officials, including the Honourable Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, and the Honourable Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.
The United Nations family in Ghana mourns with the nation in this moment of deep grief. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, and to the Government and people of Ghana, as we together face this painful loss. This tragedy is not only a national wound but also a loss felt across the international community.
We stand united at this time of mourning. We honour the memory of all those who have passed, with hope for their lasting peace.
ZIA CHOUDHURY
UN Resident Coordinator for Ghana
Germany Government Message:
Germany stands in grief and solidarity with Ghana
It is with deep sorrow and heartfelt sympathy that the German Embassy in Accra has learned of the tragic loss of lives in a helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Government, families and friends of the victims.
Among the victims are honourable public servants, including two ministers, with whom the German Embassy has worked closely and trustfully. Their dedication to Ghana’s development, their vision, and their personal warmth will be deeply missed.
Germany stands in grief and solidarity with the people of Ghana during this difficult time.
Signed
German Embassy Accra
Iran Message:
Iran offers condolences to Ghana over helicopter crash
In a post on his X account on Thursday, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei wrote, “We extend our deep condolences to the families of the victims of the tragic helicopter crash in #Ghana, including Defense Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed in the Adansi area of Ashanti.”
Condoling to the families of victims of this tragic incident including defense and environment ministers of Ghana, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman expressed his sympathy with the government and people of Ghana.
Indonesian government mourns with Ghana
The Indonesian government has extended heartfelt condolences to the government, bereaved families and the citizenry on the death of 8 individuals in a military helicopter crash on Wednesday, 6th August 2025.
The Indonesian Honorary Consul of the Republic of Indonesia in Ghana, H.E. Paskal A. B. Rois described the tragic death of the eight as a great loss to Africa and allies of Ghana across the world, including Indonesia.
“Their loss is not only a national tragedy for Ghana but a great loss to the African continent and to nations like Indonesia that share strong diplomatic and developmental bonds with Ghana”, he said in a communique he issued on behalf of the Indonesian government.
Mr. Rois said the “heartbreaking event has deeply shaken us” and eulogised the deceased as devoted personalities who served with distinction and honour in their line of duty, exhibiting “a true spirit of patriotism.”
“As we extend our prayers and support, we reaffirm our unwavering solidarity with the Republic of Ghana and the families affected by this irreparable loss. May their souls rest in eternal peace”, he concluded.
Ghanaian public are in a state of deep agony over sad news coming from the Adansi enclave where a military helicopter crashed this morning.
Government’s Spokesperson, Hon Felix Kwakye is expected to address the nation any moment from now.
It is feared Defence Minister, Dr Omane Boamah, was in the helicopter which was carrying 3 crew members and 5 passengers believed to be senior government officials.
Below is the Press Release from the Ghana Armed Forces:
PRESS RELEASE
Date: 6 August 2025
MISSING GHANA AIRFORCE Z9 HELICOPTER
A GAF helicopter. Z9 that took off this morning at 0912hrs from Accra and heading for Obuasi is currently off the radar. All efforts are being made to establish contact. On board were 3 crew and 5 passengers. Further details to be communicate soon.
The Bank of Ghana is developing a comprehensive framework for the introduction of Non-Interest Banking and Finance (NIBF) in the country.
Led by Professor John Gartchie Gatsi, Advisor to the Bank of Ghana, the central bank aims to have this framework ready by the end of 2025 as it is currently on a broader jurisdictional and stakeholder engagement.
The NIBF, amid its comprehensive and holistic financing system which focuses on more productive results from money as against the conventional financial system which focuses on earning on money, provides secured, guaranteed and highly risk averse sources of funding tailored for specific projects at a time.
“NIBF is expected to finance big infrastructure projects, improve socio-economic activities, increase economic growth, deepen financial inclusion, and promote risk sharing in financial transactions”, Prof Gatsi has noted.
What You Should Know:
Non-Interest Banking &Finance (NIBF) 101
1 .It is not for any particular religion and doesn’t promote a religion.
2. Shareholders , clients and customers come from all backgrounds irrespective of religion
3. It will be under Bank of Ghana’s regulatory authority.
4. It has no relationship to membership of any religious entity within and outside Ghana though the principles are universal religious Values.
5. The UK has 25 NIBF institutions at the end of 2024 with 35% of customers are Non- Muslims. 40% of clients in Australia are Non- Muslims. In Nigeria , there is a growing number of the public from all religions.
6. There is therefore no discrimination as to shareholders, customers and clients. Christians, Muslims, Traditionalists etc work in NIBF institutions globally including Nigeria.
7. NIBF has a business case , infrastructure finance and financial inclusion benefits for Ghana.
8. It doesn’t help for inclusive nation building to preach religious domination as part of NIBF
9. The Bank of Ghana is not a religious body and only promotes financial products that will contribute meaningful to the economy and expand the frontiers of financial inclusion and regulatory efficiency.
Non-Interest Banking &Finance (NIBF) 101a
1. NIBF can be implemented by conventional banks including Microfinance institutions , insurance firms and capital markets firms called non-interest banking window.
2. 2025 NIBF Survey by IFRIG shows the following for Ghana:
a. 90% of respondents of about 5778 know about NIBF largely within the last one year mainly through social media and online news portal
b. 96% believe NIBF has a future in Ghana
c. 98% are willing to patronize NIBF when rollout
d.75.9% say it will improve financial inclusion and 81.5% say it will help MSMEs
Non-Interest Bank and Finance (NIBF) 101b
1. In secular economies globally, many customers utilize services from both conventional and NIBF institutions.
2. Central Banks globally supervise NIBF institutions via Banking Supervision Departments.
3. Consistency with principles is assured through a Product Experts Committee.
4. Non-interest Banks lead in NIBF, followed by Sukuk or non-interest bonds.
5. Strong links exist between NIBF and real sector development.
6. NIBF principles align with productivity.
Non-Interest Banking and Finance (NIBF) 101c
1. In various countries, the performance of NIBF institutions and conventional financial institutions converges, while in others, NIBF institutions slightly outperform conventional ones.
2. Non-Interest Insurance appeals to underserved communities.
3. NIBF is typically led by the private sector, with private citizens providing capital to establish NIBF institutions.
4. NIBF can be listed on stock exchanges, as exemplified by the UK, and in West Africa, Jaiz Bank, a NIB is listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
5. NIBF institutions publish annual reports and conduct annual general meetings, as required of all conventional banks, insurance, and capital markets firms.
6. The board and top management of NIBF institutions are subject to the fit and proper test of Central banks, Security and Exchange Commissions and National Insurance Commissions as a key governance requirement applied to conventional counterparts
7. Regulatory capital requirements are applied to NIBF institutions
Current Chief of Staff of President John Dramani Mahama’s administration, Julius Debrah, is considered a strong contender to lead the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2028 elections.
Several political analysts and politicians have alluded to this assertion based on several reasons deduced from his personality and political life.
Leadership Experience
Debrah’s exemplary leadership as former and current Chief of Staff has earned him a strong reputation, showcasing his ability to manage and lead effectively.
Unifying Figure
He’s seen as a unifier who can bring people together, transcending political divides. His humility and respect for all have garnered admiration from various quarters.
Strategic Appeal
Debrah provides the NDC with strategic geographical appeal, helping the party align with national expectations of regional balance as a native of the Eastern Region.
Persona Attributes
He’s described as hardworking, humble, and capable of leading the NDC to victory. His calm and successful work style has earned him endorsements from various individuals, including prominent members of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Cross-Party Support
Some NPP members, like Alex Mensah, have expressed willingness to support Debrah if he becomes the NDC flagbearer, highlighting his broad appeal.
Grassroots Support
NDC grassroots have named Debrah as their favorite candidate for the 2028 flagbearer race, citing his integrity and commitment to the party’s values.
Unmatched Dedication
He left a successful professional career to serve the party full-time, showing his unwavering loyalty.
Experience That Delivers
With a solid track record of strategic organization, electoral success, and grassroots coordination, he brings results, not just promises.
Proven Results
From mobilization to communication, Julius Debrah has delivered where it matters most, ensuring Members continues to rise in NDC national relevance.
#JuliusLeads : Maintaining momentum, stability, and vision.
#JuliusLeads : Protecting progress and reward performance.
