PM Hamza Abdi Barre, inaugurated the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) branch in Lasanod, SSC KHAATUMO

Prime Minister of Somalia Officially Opens NIRA Branch in SSC-Khaatumo, Expanding National Identity Services

Lasanod, SSC-Khaatumo – April 13, 2025 – His Excellency Hamza Abdi Barre, Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Somalia, and His Excellency Abdikadir Ahmed Aw-Ali (Firdhiye), Leader of SSC-Khaatumo Administration, today jointly inaugurated the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) branch in Lasanod; in the presence of Hon. Ali Yusuf Ali (Ali Hoosh), Minister of Interior, Federal Affairs and Reconciliation, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, the  Deputy Minister of Internal Security, Hon. Sulub Ahmed Firin, and Director General of NIRA Mr. Abdiweli Ali Abdulle (Timacadde).

During his keynote address, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre emphasized the transformative potential of the National Identity Card system, stating that it serves as both a tool for personal empowerment and a foundation for national development. "The National ID is more than just documentation – it is a gateway to financial inclusion, improved security, and full participation in our nation's digital economy," the Prime Minister declared.

The inauguration ceremony featured the official registration of numerous distinguished regional figures, including SSC-Khaatumo Administration Leader H.E. Abdiqadir Ahmed Aw-Ali (Firdhiye), Parliament Speaker Hon. Jama Yasin Warsame, Deputy Speakers, and prominent traditional leaders such as Garaad Abdillahi Garaad Saleebaan, Garaad Abdisalaan Hassan, Sultan Said Osman Ali, and Garaad Saleeban Buraale. Civil society representatives and local dignitaries also participated in this historic registration process.

NIRA's expansion into SSC-Khaatumo includes two operational centers, with the main branch in Lasanod and an additional facility in Buuhoodle. This infrastructure development ensures comprehensive coverage and accessibility for residents throughout the region.

H.E. Abdiqadir Ahmed Aw-Ali (Firdhiye) praised the initiative, stating, "Today marks a new chapter in our administration's ability to serve our people effectively. With these NIRA centers, we are building the foundation for transparent governance and economic opportunity." On his part, NIRA Director General Mr. Abdiweli Ali Abdulle (Timacadde) reaffirmed the authority's commitment to nationwide service delivery, noting that the SSC-Khaatumo branches represent part of a broader strategy to establish identity registration centers across all federal member states.

The Federal Government continues to prioritize the expansion of critical services as part of its national development agenda, with the National ID program serving as a cornerstone of Somalia's digital transformation and governance modernization efforts.