The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has established a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) Division within its Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Department to leverage AI’s benefits while addressing its potential risks in elections.
In a statement released on Thursday, Sam Olumekun, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, explained that the division’s creation aims to capitalize on AI’s advantages and minimize its downsides, ensuring more secure and efficient electoral operations.
Olumekun highlighted that the division will streamline the coordination of current technology resources through centralized AI oversight. This move is expected to improve decision-making by incorporating data-driven insights, bolstering risk management, and increasing voter engagement.
Additionally, he noted that the initiative will enhance the credibility of elections using tools like predictive analytics, automated processes, and advanced security measures. “This positions INEC as a leader in integrating AI into our ICT systems,” Olumekun stated. “It represents a key advancement in our efforts to reform electoral procedures through internal administrative measures.”
INEC also shared that it has participated in various conferences across Africa to discuss AI’s influence on elections. These discussions were driven by concerns about AI’s role in disseminating misinformation and altering online content, as well as opportunities to apply AI for informed decision-making, early risk identification, automated voter services, and improved logistics such as material distribution and polling site assignments.
