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By Tracy Moses
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the establishment of a dedicated Artificial Intelligence (AI) Division within its ICT Department as part of efforts to leverage technological innovation for credible elections while addressing its potential risks.
The move was revealed in Abuja on Thursday by Sam Olumekun, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee.
Olumekun explained that the newly created division will enhance the Commission’s capacity to coordinate its technology-driven initiatives through centralized AI oversight, enabling more efficient use of its digital infrastructure.
According to him, the unit will support improved electoral outcomes by utilizing data analytics, enhancing risk management, and boosting voter interaction.
“The AI Division will play a crucial role in strengthening electoral credibility by integrating predictive analytics, automated systems, and intelligent safeguards,” Olumekun stated.
He further noted that the Commission’s engagement with electoral bodies across Africa at recent conferences sparked the idea, driven by a shared concern over AI’s misuse, such as the spread of misinformation, and its positive potential for advancing electoral operations.
“These discussions emphasized both the risks of AI manipulation and the opportunities it presents for informed decision-making, improved risk detection, and automated voter services. It also offers geospatial intelligence to optimize logistics and enhance polling unit management,” he said.
He stressed that the initiative is a critical component of INEC’s broader agenda to reform and modernize Nigeria’s electoral process.
Reacting to the development, Samson Itodo, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, lauded INEC’s decision, describing it as a forward-thinking measure that could significantly improve democratic governance.
“INEC’s move to create an AI-focused division is timely and commendable, especially at a period when AI is being adopted globally to improve election management,” he said.
Itodo praised the Commission for leading innovation in Africa, stating that this marks the first time an electoral body on the continent is establishing such a unit.
He emphasized that AI can be used to detect anomalies in election results, combat misinformation, and ensure transparency.
“We’re hopeful that this division will develop AI solutions that safeguard data privacy and contribute meaningfully to enhancing electoral quality and, ultimately, democratic integrity,” he concluded.