By Gabriel Ameh
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is set to deploy artificial intelligence (AI) tools to strengthen the verification of election results and detect potential cyberattacks ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, disclosed this on Tuesday during a world press conference at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, where he outlined preparations for the 2027 polls.
Amupitan said INEC had established a dedicated Artificial Intelligence Division within its Information and Communications Technology (ICT) department as part of efforts to strengthen the integrity and security of the electoral process.
According to him, automated AI auditing tools have already been integrated into the Commission’s result verification process under a five-pillar AI governance framework.
He stressed, however, that the use of artificial intelligence would remain subject to human oversight.
“Automated AI auditing tools have been integrated into our result verification process under a five-pillar AI governance framework operating under mandatory human oversight,” Amupitan said.
He added that the Commission was finalising its AI governance framework policy to guide the use of the technology.
AI to Monitor Cyber Threats
The INEC Chairman also disclosed that the Commission was working with international technology companies and other partners to deploy AI-powered anomaly detection tools.
He said the technology would help monitor database traffic and protect INEC systems against cyber intrusions and unauthorised alterations to election-related documents.
The move is part of broader efforts by the Commission to strengthen the security of its digital infrastructure ahead of the 2027 elections.
INEC is also planning a nationwide mock accreditation exercise to test its electoral systems and identify potential challenges before the general elections.
The Commission has continued to emphasise the need for technology, security measures and human oversight to work together in protecting the credibility of the electoral process.
Credit: Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)
