2027: INEC Unveils AI, Cybersecurity Measures, Mock BVAS Test to Strengthen Election

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced plans to strengthen its institutional capacity, improve electoral technology and expand access for women, youths and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) ahead of the 2027 general election.

The INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, disclosed this in Abuja when he received the Chargé d’Affaires of the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria, David Sproule, and his delegation on a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters.

Amupitan said the Commission was prioritising electoral technology, cybersecurity, inclusion and the fight against misinformation and disinformation as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.

He also disclosed that INEC would conduct a mock accreditation exercise later this year to test its electoral equipment, particularly the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), ahead of the general election.

According to him, the exercise would enable the Commission to identify and address potential technical and operational challenges before the 2027 polls.

The INEC chairman said the Commission had continued to use off-cycle elections as opportunities to test and improve its electoral systems, citing recent elections in Anambra, the Federal Capital Territory, Ekiti and Osun states.

INEC Establishes AI Unit

Amupitan further revealed that INEC had established a dedicated Artificial Intelligence Unit to examine responsible applications of AI in electoral processes.

He said the unit would explore the use of AI in areas including data management, voter registration and results transmission.

At the same time, the Commission is developing safeguards against emerging technological threats, particularly deepfakes and AI-generated disinformation that could undermine public confidence in elections.

The INEC chairman stressed the importance of strengthening cybersecurity and protecting the integrity of electoral information as technology continues to play a greater role in the electoral process.

Campaigns for 2027 Elections Begin

Amupitan also disclosed that public campaigns and political rallies for the 2027 general election officially commenced on August 19.

He linked the commencement of the campaign period to the signing of the First National Peace Accord on Issue-Based Campaigns by presidential candidates on August 18.

He said INEC was committed to working with stakeholders to promote peaceful, credible and transparent elections.

The chairman also welcomed stronger international partnerships, particularly in electoral technology, capacity building, inclusion, civic education and the protection of electoral integrity.

Canada Pledges Support

Earlier, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Canadian High Commission, David Sproule, reaffirmed Canada’s readiness to support INEC in its preparations for the 2027 general election.

Sproule said the delegation visited the Commission to understand its level of preparedness and identify areas where Canada could provide assistance.

Amupitan noted that Nigeria and Canada shared longstanding ties founded on democratic values, the rule of law and good governance.

He expressed appreciation for Canada’s continued support for Nigeria’s democratic development and pledged to deepen cooperation between both countries as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.

The planned BVAS mock accreditation, expanded inclusion measures and the establishment of an AI-focused unit are among the measures INEC is putting in place as it seeks to strengthen the credibility, security and accessibility of the 2027 general election.