Get Guardian on GoogleThe Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the creation of an Artificial Intelligence Division under the ICT Department to continue to harness the positive aspects of AI and mitigate its negative impact on elections.
INEC’s spokesperson, Sam Olumekun, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday.
Olumekun said the decision was approved during the commission’s regular weekly meeting held Thursday.
He added that the rising influence of AI on global elections prompted the move.
According to INEC, the new division will enable the Commission to better coordinate and maximise existing technology investments through centralised AI governance.
INEC added that the new division will also enhance decision-making through data-driven insights, risk management and voter engagement.
“Furthermore, it will strengthen electoral credibility through predictive analytics, automation and intelligent safeguards.”
“This initiative puts the Commission in the forefront of institutionalising AI capabilities within our ICT infrastructure. It is also an important step in our ongoing reform of the electoral process in areas that only require administrative action by the Commission.”
