The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Nigeria has started using artificial intelligence (AI) tools to improve the verification of election results and detect anomalies. This move is part of preparations for the 2027 general elections. INEC has created a dedicated Artificial Intelligence Division under its Information and Communication Technology Department. The goal is to enhance the integrity, efficiency, and security of the electoral process.
INEC's AI tools will be used for automated auditing and anomaly detection in result verification and database monitoring. The commission emphasized that AI will not independently determine electoral outcomes but will support human decision-making. AI tools will help identify unusual patterns, verify information, and strengthen the monitoring of electoral data. This approach is part of a five-pillar governance framework.
INEC Chairman, Prof Joash Amupitan, highlighted the commission's focus on ensuring the 2027 election meets high standards of credibility. He noted that the 100-day milestone before the election is a call to action. The commission aims to make the 2027 general election a global benchmark for transparency, integrity, and peace. INEC is working to ensure the election meets international standards.
As part of its preparations, INEC will conduct a nationwide mock accreditation and simulation exercise in November 2026. The exercise will test election personnel, hardware, and network protocols. Additionally, state-level training for Registration Area Technical Support Personnel (RACtechs) will take place in November, followed by a strategic briefing on December 13, 2026.
INEC plans to conduct readiness audits across the 774 Local Government Areas on January 13 and 14, 2027. These audits will assess operational preparedness ahead of the elections. The commission will also provide refresher training for personnel across all 8,809 Registration Area Centres, with on-site technical support during the election period.
The Nigeria Police Force will lead election security, with joint training for Electoral Security Personnel ongoing through the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security. INEC is using risk-management tools, including the Election Risk Management system and Election Violence Monitoring, Analysis and Tracking system, to monitor incidents and strengthen security planning.
The AI initiative is part of INEC's broader technology-focused approach to the 2027 election. The commission is strengthening its existing electoral technologies, including result-management systems and the INEC Result Viewing Portal. With these measures, INEC aims to strengthen the technological and operational systems that will support the 2027 general election.
Key points
- INEC deploys AI tools to verify election results and detect anomalies ahead of the 2027 general elections.
- The commission conducts a nationwide mock accreditation and simulation exercise in November 2026.
- INEC plans readiness audits across 774 Local Government Areas on January 13 and 14, 2027.
