INEC Joins Regional Dialogue On Protecting Elections In The Digital Age
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s elections from the growing threats of misinformation, disinformation, and cyber manipulation.
This was highlighted as an INEC delegation participated in a two-day regional workshop on “Protecting Elections in the Information Environment” held in Abuja from 27–28 August.
The forum, organised by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, International IDEA, in partnership with the African Union (AU), ECONEC, and supported by the EU-funded SPEC project, brought electoral stakeholders across Africa.
Led by Hajia Aminetu Shiaka, Assistant Director in INEC’s ICT Department, the Nigerian team contributed insights from the country’s electoral experiences.
Shiaka stressed the need for stronger safeguards around election technologies, while Makanjuola Taiwo warned of malign actors spreading false narratives.
Patience George highlighted INEC’s collaborations to combat disinformation, and Fidelia Udumma cautioned that public trust is now most at risk on social media, where misinformation spreads rapidly.
Participants agreed that regional cooperation is essential, given that threats to electoral integrity increasingly transcend borders.
INEC reaffirmed its readiness to adopt innovative strategies to boost transparency and trust, aligning Nigeria with continental efforts to protect democracy in the digital age.
