The Nigerian electoral body, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has held an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) development seminar on Artificial Intelligence (AI) at its Lagos State Headquarters in Sabo, Yaba, Lagos, as part of efforts to strengthen the role of emerging technologies in Nigeria’s electoral process.
The seminar, held at the Commission’s facility on Birrel Avenue, brought together ICT experts, electoral officials, and key stakeholders to explore the development of an AI framework for election management. The engagement forms part of INEC’s broader push to modernise its operations through digital innovation.
According to information published on INEC’s official communication channels, the event was described as an “ICT Workshop on Development of Artificial Intelligence Framework,” aimed at positioning the Commission to responsibly adopt advanced technologies in conducting elections.
INEC, in its official statement on the workshop, noted that the initiative focuses on “developing an Artificial Intelligence framework” to guide the integration of AI into its electoral systems, highlighting a structured, policy-driven approach to technological adoption.
Discussions at the seminar examined the application of AI across critical areas of the electoral cycle, including biometric voter registration, data verification and cleansing, intelligent result collation, and election security. Participants noted that AI tools could significantly enhance accuracy, reduce human error, and improve the speed and transparency of electoral processes.
At the same time, stakeholders raised concerns about the potential risks associated with AI deployment, including data privacy issues, cybersecurity threats, and algorithmic bias. Experts emphasised the need for robust legal and ethical frameworks, along with human oversight, to ensure accountability in the use of AI systems.
The seminar also underscored the importance of capacity building within the Commission. Participants called for sustained training programmes and strategic partnerships with academic institutions, technology firms, and civil society organisations to equip INEC staff with the expertise required to manage and audit AI-driven solutions.
Observers say the Lagos workshop signals a significant step in INEC’s digital transformation agenda, with the development of an AI framework expected to shape future pilot programmes and policy decisions. The Commission’s efforts are aimed at enhancing electoral integrity, improving operational efficiency, and building greater public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.
Senior Reporter/Editor
Bio: Ugochukwu is a freelance journalist and Editor at AIbase.ng, with a strong professional focus on investigative reporting. He holds a degree in Mass Communication and brings extensive experience in news gathering, reporting, and editorial writing. With over a decade of active engagement across diverse news outlets, he contributes in-depth analytical, practical, and expository articles exploring artificial intelligence and its real-world impact. His seasoned newsroom experience and well-established information networks provide AIbase.ng with credible, timely, and high-quality coverage of emerging AI developments.