Cameroon’s Police Launch New Secure ID System, Citizens Told to Update National Identity Cards

In a radio-press communiqué signed by Martin Mbarga Nguélé, the Delegate General of National Security, the DGSN emphasized that the move comes under high instructions from the Head of State, who ordered the swift resolution of ID issuance problems that have plagued the system in recent years.

The new initiative seeks to clean up the national ID database and ensure every citizen has a secure, legally issued identity card as Cameroon moves toward digitized and more secure identification standards.

Procedure for Affected Citizens

Cameroonians who are experiencing issues with their CNI — such as double registration, rejected applications, or long delays — are instructed to report to their nearest regional delegation and submit their request with all required information.

According to the communiqué:

• A fee of 10,200 FCFA must be paid via Orange Money or MTN Mobile Money to facilitate processing.

• Citizens must send proof of payment, along with supporting documents, to the DGSN through the specified procedures.

• The process particularly targets citizens aged 15 years and above, who are required by law to possess a valid national ID.

The DGSN assured that these measures aim to protect citizens’ rights and reinforce national security, in line with the government’s vision for a modernized civil registry and identification infrastructure.

Contact and Further Information

The DGSN has also provided a WhatsApp contact number (+237 683 840 920) for inquiries and guidance, inviting citizens to seek assistance through official channels.

What will the new system mean for citizens with double identities? Can Cameroon finally overcome its chronic ID issuance delays? Will the digital payment requirement ease or complicate the process for rural populations? And how will this move impact voter rolls and national security in the coming years?