The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has begun training its Public Affairs Officers to counter AI-driven misinformation ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 General Elections.
The capacity-building workshop opened in Abuja on Monday and focuses on strengthening officers’ ability to verify information, respond to misinformation and maintain accurate election communication.
Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, warned that generative AI had made manipulated audio, video and images cheaper and harder to detect.
He said the threat also includes targeted messaging capable of exposing different groups of voters to conflicting narratives.
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The training will equip Public Affairs Officers with practical skills to monitor the information environment and respond to misinformation and disinformation. It will also cover the responsible use of AI, including its applications, limitations, confidentiality and verification safeguards.
INEC said the workshop forms part of its preparations for the 2027 elections, with additional capacity-building programmes planned with development partners.
The Commission has previously used a Media Trend Tool to monitor online narratives and identify emerging misinformation around electoral activities.
With AI-generated content becoming increasingly accessible, INEC is placing greater emphasis on rapid verification and accurate communication as the 2027 election approaches.
Lawrence Orjime is an AI and technology writer at AIBase.ng, covering the latest developments in artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and the companies shaping the future of AI.
With a background in content strategy, SEO, and digital media, Lawrence Orjime combines technology reporting with a strong understanding of what makes information useful and easy to find online.