The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has intensified its global partnerships on artificial intelligence (AI), emerging technologies and cybersecurity as part of efforts to strengthen the security and resilience of Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 General Election.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, held strategic meetings with senior officials of Microsoft and the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) on the sidelines of the Global Conference on Responsible AI and Elections in Ottawa, Canada.
Amupitan, accompanied by the Director of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Dr. Lawrence Bayode, met with Microsoft’s Emerging Tech and Cyber Lead, Ethan Chumley, and Programme Manager, Ariana Molina.
The discussions focused on emerging technologies, cybersecurity and the responsible use of artificial intelligence in strengthening the resilience and security of electoral processes.
The Commission said the engagements were aimed at building strategic partnerships with leading technology and electoral institutions while strengthening its capacity to respond to emerging technological opportunities and risks in the electoral environment.
At a separate meeting with Dr. Lisa Poggiali, Chief AI Advisor at IFES, Amupitan discussed the responsible application of artificial intelligence in electoral administration.
INEC said the discussions reflect its commitment to “building strategic partnerships with leading technology and electoral institutions” as it continues to strengthen its institutional capacity and explore innovative approaches to emerging technological challenges.
The Commission also highlighted the importance of responsible AI, particularly as new technologies present both opportunities and risks for election management.
Amupitan’s engagements followed his participation in the Global Conference on Responsible AI and Elections, where he shared Nigeria’s experience and lessons in the institutionalisation of responsible AI for electoral administration.
The three-day conference, held in Ottawa from September 9 to 11, brought together election management bodies, technology experts, international organisations and other stakeholders to examine the opportunities and risks associated with artificial intelligence in electoral processes.
INEC said the meetings with Microsoft and IFES underscore the importance of “sustained international collaboration” as the Commission works to strengthen the security, resilience, transparency and efficiency of Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 elections.