INEC Set to Adopt Artificial Intelligence for Future Elections in Nigeria
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced its intention to incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into Nigeria’s electoral system, a move aimed at modernizing and streamlining election processes both locally and internationally.
The announcement came after INEC’s weekly meeting held on Thursday, May 22, 2025. In a statement issued by Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, the Commission outlined its vision for using AI to enhance electoral operations.
According to the statement, INEC’s decision was influenced by insights gathered from recent discussions with other African electoral bodies on the potential of AI to transform election management. The Commission believes that AI can play a vital role in data-driven decision-making, identifying and mitigating risks, automating voter services, and using geospatial intelligence to improve logistics like the distribution of election materials and polling unit mapping.
To drive this innovation, INEC has approved the creation of a dedicated Artificial Intelligence Division within its Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Department. The new division will be tasked with optimizing the Commission’s existing technology infrastructure by implementing centralized AI governance.
“This new unit will help INEC harness AI for improved strategic planning, voter engagement, predictive analytics, and enhanced credibility of the electoral process,” the statement noted. The Commission emphasized that this step is part of broader electoral reforms designed to build a smarter, more transparent, and efficient system.
Sam Olumekun added, “With this development, INEC is positioning itself as a leader in AI adoption within election management across Africa. It represents a significant leap forward in using technology to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.”
