Libyan Tech Firm Al Itissan Wins Niger Contract for Biometric Passports and

Published Date : 6/30/2025 

Al Itissan Al-Jadeed, a Libyan biometrics solutions provider, has secured a significant contract to modernize Niger's passport and national ID systems through a public-private partnership, aiming to enhance digital identity security and efficiency. 

Libyan biometrics solutions provider Al Itissan Al-Jadeed has made headlines by securing a major contract to upgrade Niger's passport and national ID systems. This development marks a significant step in the country's efforts to modernize its identity management infrastructure. The agreement, signed in Niamey, Niger's capital, was finalized through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) framework, highlighting the growing collaboration between African nations and international tech firms. n nThe contract involves two key memorandums of understanding (MoUs) signed between Niger's government and Al Itissan Al-Jadeed. The first MoU focuses on the financing, construction, and maintenance of a biometric passport system, while the second addresses the development of a secure national digital ID. These initiatives aim to streamline the issuance of passports and national ID cards, ensuring faster and more secure identity verification processes. n nThe biometric passports will be produced using polycarbonate materials embedded with biometric chips, a technology that enhances security and reduces the risk of fraud. Additionally, the project includes the establishment of a digital archiving system to store and manage identity records efficiently. This move aligns with global trends in digital identity management, where countries are increasingly adopting biometric solutions to improve governance and service delivery. n nNiger's government emphasized that the upgrade is part of a broader strategy to modernize its administrative systems. By adopting advanced biometric technologies, the country aims to reduce bureaucratic delays and improve the accuracy of identity documentation. The project is also expected to support Niger's digital government plans, which seek to integrate technology into public services for greater efficiency. n nAl Itissan Al-Jadeed's involvement in this project underscores its growing reputation in the biometrics sector. The company, known for its expertise in secure identity solutions, has previously worked on similar projects in the region. Its director, Wissal Samtali, highlighted the importance of the contract, stating that it will provide a highly secure passport system and support Niger's transition to a more digitized government. n nThis development comes amid broader regional changes in the Sahel. Months prior, Niger, along with Burkina Faso and Mali, launched a common biometric passport following their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The three nations, grouped under the Confederation of Sahel States (AES), introduced a regional travel document to replace the ECOWAS passport. Despite this shift, ECOWAS member states have agreed to continue accepting passports from the three countries for a transitional period. n nThe partnership between Al Itissan Al-Jadeed and Niger highlights the increasing role of private sector innovation in public infrastructure projects. Public-private partnerships are becoming a common strategy for countries seeking to modernize their systems without relying solely on government funding. This approach allows for the transfer of technical expertise and resources, ensuring that projects are completed efficiently and to a high standard. n nAs Niger moves forward with this initiative, the success of the biometric passport and national ID system will be closely monitored. The project's impact on reducing identity-related fraud, improving administrative efficiency, and enhancing citizen services will be key indicators of its effectiveness. With the support of Al Itissan Al-Jadeed, Niger is taking a significant step toward a more secure and technologically advanced identity management framework. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is the main goal of Al Itissan Al-Jadeed's contract with Niger?

A: The main goal is to modernize Niger's passport and national ID systems by implementing biometric technologies, enhancing security, and streamlining identity verification processes.

Q: How will the biometric passports be produced?

A: The passports will be made with polycarbonate materials and embedded with biometric chips, ensuring advanced security features to prevent fraud.

Q: What role does the Public Private Partnership play in this project?

A: The PPP framework allows for collaboration between Niger's government and Al Itissan Al-Jadeed, combining technical expertise and resources to modernize identity management systems efficiently.

Q: Why is this project important for Niger?

A: It aims to reduce bureaucratic delays, improve the accuracy of identity documentation, and support Niger's broader digital government initiatives.

Q: How does this contract relate to regional developments in the Sahel?

A: The project aligns with the Sahel countries' efforts to create a common biometric passport system, reflecting a shift away from ECOWAS and a focus on regional cooperation. 

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