The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the creation of a new Artificial Intelligence Division as part of efforts to integrate emerging technologies into Nigeria’s electoral process.
INEC disclosed this after its weekly meeting on Thursday in Abuja.
According to Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, the decision was informed by the increasing relevance of AI to electoral processes globally.
INEC noted that recent engagements with electoral bodies across Africa showed both the risks and opportunities associated with AI, including its potential for enhancing electoral transparency and efficiency.
The electoral umpire acknowledged growing concerns about the use of AI to spread disinformation and manipulate content online.
However, it also acknowledged the technology’s benefits for data-driven decision-making, risk detection, improved voter services, and the use of geospatial intelligence to optimise logistics and polling unit allocation.
“Consequently, the Commission approved the creation of an Artificial Intelligence Division under the ICT Department to continue to harness the positive aspects of AI and mitigate its negative impact on elections.
“The Division will enable the Commission to better coordinate and maximise existing technology investments through centralised AI governance. It will also enhance decision-making through data-driven insights, risk management and voter engagement. Furthermore, it will strengthen electoral credibility through predictive analytics, automation and intelligent safeguards.
“This initiative puts the Commission at the forefront of institutionalising AI capabilities within our ICT infrastructure. It is also an important step in our ongoing reform of the electoral process in areas that only require administrative action by the Commission,” said Olumekun.
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