The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the creation of a dedicated Artificial Intelligence (AI) division, marking a significant step in modernising Nigeria’s electoral system.
The new unit, approved during the commission’s weekly meeting on Thursday, 22nd May 2025, will operate under the ICT Department and focus on leveraging AI to enhance efficiency, security, and decision-making in elections.
The move follows INEC’s participation in several continental conferences where election management bodies discussed the growing influence of AI—both as a tool for improving electoral processes and as a potential risk due to its misuse in spreading disinformation.
While concerns remain over AI-generated fake news and manipulated content, the commission emphasised its commitment to harnessing the technology’s benefits, including data analysis, risk detection, logistics optimisation, and voter service automation.
Sam Olumekun, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, stated that the AI division would centralise governance of the commission’s technological investments, ensuring more effective deployment of resources.
Among its key functions will be enhancing decision-making through data-driven insights, improving risk management, and strengthening voter engagement. The division will also employ predictive analytics and intelligent safeguards to bolster the credibility of elections.
“This initiative places INEC at the forefront of institutionalising AI within electoral administration,” Olumekun said. “It reflects our commitment to continuous reforms, particularly in areas where administrative action can drive meaningful progress.
The commission did not provide an immediate timeline for the full implementation of the AI division but affirmed that the step aligns with its broader efforts to enhance Nigeria’s electoral framework. As the 2027 general elections approach, the integration of AI-driven solutions could play a pivotal role in shaping a more resilient and responsive voting system.
Discussion about this post