INEC will deploy AI tools for election result verification and cybersecurity ahead of the 2027 general elections, chairman Joash Amupitan says.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will deploy artificial intelligence (AI) tools to verify election results and strengthen cybersecurity ahead of the 2027 general elections, its chairman, Joash Amupitan, has said.
Amupitan disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja at a World Press Conference and National Stakeholders’ Meeting marking 100 days to the 2027 general election. He said the commission had established a dedicated AI Division within its Information and Communications Technology Department as part of efforts to strengthen its electoral systems.
AI To Support Result Verification
The INEC chairman said automated AI auditing tools had already been integrated into the commission’s results verification process under a five-pillar AI governance framework.
He stressed that the technology would operate under mandatory human oversight, meaning AI would support the verification process rather than replace electoral officials in making critical decisions.
“An AI governance framework policy is being finalised by the commission,” Amupitan said.
He added that INEC was working with international technology leaders and partners to integrate AI-driven anomaly detection tools into its systems.
Technology To Strengthen Election Cybersecurity
According to Amupitan, the AI-driven tools will also be used to monitor database traffic and detect suspicious activity, helping protect INEC’s systems and public portals against cyber intrusions and unauthorised alterations.
The commission’s increased focus on AI comes as election technology and digital information become more central to Nigeria’s electoral process, including the verification and transmission of election results.
Amupitan also highlighted the threat posed by AI-generated disinformation, including deepfakes and manipulated election-related content, warning that false information could undermine public confidence in genuine information from electoral authorities.
INEC Steps Up Preparations For 2027 Polls
The commission is also preparing for nationwide mock accreditation and public display exercises, while its workforce undergoes systematic training ahead of the elections.
Amupitan described the preparations as part of INEC’s “100-day sprint” towards the 2027 general election, with the commission also working on other measures to strengthen its electoral infrastructure.
The chairman assured Nigerians and the international community of INEC’s commitment to neutrality and the integrity of the electoral process, while urging stakeholders to support efforts to protect the credibility of the elections.
