The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) introduced an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Division to improve election planning, risk management, and voter service automation. This new division, based within the ICT Department, aims to enhance the Commission’s ability to use data for informed decision-making, identify risks, and streamline logistics for material distribution and polling unit allocation.
The decision was announced by Mr. Sam Olumekun, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, during a regular weekly meeting in Abuja. He explained that AI would help the Commission manage electoral processes more efficiently through predictive analytics, automation, and improved decision-making. Additionally, the use of geospatial intelligence will optimize logistics and distribution.
Olumekun also shared that recent engagements at conferences across Africa focused on both the benefits and challenges of AI in elections, particularly in preventing the spread of fake news and content manipulation. This initiative reflects INEC’s commitment to leveraging technology for administrative improvements while mitigating potential risks.
With this new AI Division, INEC aims to coordinate its technology investments better and continue reforms to enhance Nigeria’s electoral process.
