The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Nigeria plans to deploy artificial intelligence (AI) tools to verify results and strengthen cybersecurity ahead of the 2027 general elections. INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, announced this at a press conference and national stakeholders' meeting in Abuja. He stated that the commission has established a dedicated AI division within its information and communication technology (ICT) department. This move aims to enhance the electoral process and ensure the integrity of the ballot box.
Amupitan revealed that automated AI auditing tools have been integrated into the commission's result verification process under a five-pillar AI governance framework. The use of AI will be subjected to mandatory human oversight to prevent errors or biases. The INEC chairman also mentioned that an AI governance framework policy is being finalised by the commission. This policy will guide the use of AI in the electoral process.
INEC is working with international technology leaders and partners to integrate AI-driven anomaly detection tools into its systems. These tools will monitor database traffic and protect the commission's systems against cyber intrusions and unauthorised alterations. This collaboration aims to ensure the security and integrity of the electoral process. The commission's efforts to leverage technology have been ongoing, with the introduction of an online platform, IReV, to allow stakeholders to view scanned copies of result sheets in real-time.
However, during the 2023 presidential election, the IReV portal remained inactive for an extended period, prompting suspicion from many Nigerians. Amupitan acknowledged the challenges faced during the previous election and assured Nigerians that the commission is working to prevent similar issues in the future. The commission is currently preparing for nationwide mock accreditation and public display, while its workforce is being systematically trained ahead of the elections.
Amupitan described the preparations as part of a "100-day sprint" towards the 2027 general election. He assured Nigerians and the international community of the commission's commitment to neutrality and the integrity of the electoral process. The commission's efforts have received support from development partners and security agencies. Amupitan expressed appreciation for their support and reaffirmed the commission's commitment to its responsibilities throughout the elections and beyond.
The commission's use of AI tools is expected to enhance the transparency and credibility of the electoral process. Amupitan stated that the commission would remain focused on its responsibilities and ensure that the 2027 general election is a moment of pride for Nigeria. He called on Nigerians to work together to achieve this goal. The commission's efforts to engage with stakeholders and ensure the integrity of the electoral process are ongoing.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has urged Nigerians to collect their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the 2027 general elections. Lagos State has recorded the highest number of voters, with 7.4 million voters registered. The INEC's efforts to ensure the integrity of the electoral process are crucial in maintaining public trust and confidence in the commission.
Key points
- INEC to deploy AI tools for result verification and cybersecurity ahead of 2027 elections
- Commission establishes dedicated AI division within ICT department
- INEC works with international partners to integrate AI-driven anomaly detection tools into its systems
