Recently, there has been a lot of discussion on social media about the federal government’s NIRA ID card and why Puntland has chosen not to implement it. Understanding the reasons helps us see the importance of Somalia’s federal system and the need for careful, practical solutions when it comes to citizen identification.
Puntland, as a federal member state, values its autonomy in managing local affairs. Somalia’s federal system was created to allow states to govern themselves in key areas such as security, governance, and citizen services. Many in Puntland believe that a national ID controlled entirely by the federal government could weaken state authority and overstep the principles of federalism. By managing its own ID system, Puntland protects its independence while respecting the broader federal framework.
Another key concern is the safety and privacy of citizens’ personal data. Collecting sensitive information for a national ID requires strong systems to protect it. Centralizing all citizens’ information under one federal system could expose people to misuse or unauthorized access. Puntland wants to ensure that its residents’ personal data remains safe and secure, reflecting the responsibility states have under the federal constitution.
Somalia is still facing political and security challenges, which makes a nationwide ID complicated and risky. In such a context, a regional/state ID is a practical solution. It allows states to issue identification safely, while citizens can access important services such as voting, healthcare, education, and banking without confusion or delay. A regional approach reduces risk, ensures local control, and respects the current realities on the ground.
The federal system in Somalia supports this approach. It allows states to make decisions in areas like citizen identification while coordinating with the federal government. Puntland’s decision to issue its own IDs does not oppose national unity; instead, it strengthens governance, protects citizens, and works within the legal framework of federalism.
Looking at global examples, many countries function without a mandatory national ID. In the USA, Australia, Canada, and the UK, citizens use driver’s licenses, passports, and other identification systems rather than a single federal ID. Somalia can follow a similar path safely until the institutions and systems are strong enough for a trusted nationwide ID.
The best solution is for regional governments to create and manage their own ID systems while coordinating with the federal government to ensure consistency where needed. This ensures that citizens have official identification, their personal information is safe, and the principles of federalism are respected.
In today’s Somalia, creating a national ID is not practical or safe. By allowing states like Puntland to manage their own IDs, we can strengthen governance, protect citizens, and build trust, all while preparing for a future where a nationwide system may become possible.
Farah M Warsame
Australia