RismadarVoice Reporters
October 14, 2026
The AI and Democracy Forum 2026 has highlighted the opportunities and risks associated with deploying artificial intelligence in Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The first day of the forum featured four specialised masterclasses under the AI in Elections Academy, focusing on the responsible application of emerging technologies in election administration, information management and electoral security.
Participants examined how artificial intelligence could support electoral institutions in improving operational efficiency while maintaining transparency, accountability and public confidence.
One of the sessions explored the adoption of AI in election administration, including the importance of appropriate safeguards and human oversight when introducing automated systems into electoral processes.
Another focused on the role of civil society organisations in scrutinising electoral algorithms and ensuring that technology-driven decisions remain transparent, fair and accountable.
The forum also addressed the growing threat of AI-generated misinformation and deepfakes, examining how journalists can identify manipulated content, verify digital information and prevent misleading narratives from influencing public understanding of elections.
A fourth masterclass considered the application of artificial intelligence to election security, early-warning systems and cybersecurity, particularly in identifying potential threats and strengthening institutional preparedness.
Across the sessions, facilitators emphasised that technological innovation must be accompanied by effective regulation, respect for human rights, responsible data management and adequate protection of personal information.
The discussions underscored the need for electoral institutions, journalists, civil society organisations and technology stakeholders to collaborate in addressing emerging digital threats ahead of the 2027 polls.
The forum’s opening-day activities placed particular emphasis on ensuring that artificial intelligence strengthens democratic participation and electoral integrity rather than creating new opportunities for manipulation, discrimination or misinformation.
