Artificial intelligence (AI) could improve Nigeria’s electoral processes, from voter registration and election planning to results management, but its adoption must be guided by safeguards to protect electoral integrity and public trust.
This formed the focus of the second plenary session at the AI and Democracy Forum 2026, which examined the practical applications of AI in elections and the challenges associated with its use.
The session, themed “Artificial Intelligence in Elections: Emerging Use Cases, Lessons Learned, and Critical Issues for Electoral Integrity,” explored how emerging technologies could support election administration while safeguarding the credibility of the electoral process.
Participants discussed the potential application of AI in voter education, election planning, cybersecurity and the detection of misinformation, particularly as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.
The plenary featured Dr. Lawrence Bayode, Director of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and Adewolu Adene, Head of Government Affairs and Public Policy for West Africa at Google, who participated virtually.
The session was moderated by Dr. Lisa Poggiali, Chief AI Advisor at the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES).
Discussions highlighted the opportunities AI offers electoral bodies to improve operational efficiency, strengthen information management and respond more effectively to emerging threats to election security.
The participants also examined concerns surrounding the use of AI in electoral processes, including data protection, algorithmic bias, transparency and the need for effective human oversight.
These issues, they noted, underscore the importance of ensuring that technology supports rather than undermines democratic institutions and electoral accountability.
As preparations gather momentum for the 2027 general elections, the discussions emphasised the need for a responsible approach to AI adoption, with clear rules and safeguards to ensure fairness, transparency and public confidence.
The session reinforced the importance of balancing technological innovation with democratic principles to ensure that improvements in electoral efficiency do not come at the expense of electoral integrity.
Add to Bookmark
The post AI Could Strengthen Nigeria’s Electoral Process Ahead of 2027 Elections appeared first on News Xposure.