News
Modernizing Nigerian Elections: Expert Insights on AI and Cybersecurity
In recent years, the United Kingdom’s election process has been hailed for its efficiency and transparency, with results typically declared within 24 hours of the polls end.
This contrasts sharply with the often delayed and contentious election outcomes in Nigeria. To gain insights into how Nigeria can modernize its electoral process.
In this interview, Kayode Sanni-Arewa, spoke with a leading expert, Oladoyin Akinsuli in AI and cybersecurity on how the use of AI in UK’s election and its efficiency in Nigeria’s electoral system, excerpts.
*Kindly introduce yourself*
Answer: My name is Oladoyin Akinsuli, I am a distinguished expert in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity strategy, known for his innovative approaches and significant contributions to the field.
*Thank you for joining us today. Can you start by explaining why the UK’s election process is considered a model of efficiency*
Answer: The UK’s election system is built on meticulous planning, robust logistical frameworks, and advanced technology. Key features include centralized and decentralized counting of votes, a comprehensive digital infrastructure for voter registration and verification, and high levels of transparency with results made publicly available in real-time.
*How can Nigeria improve its voter registration and verification processes using AI*
Answer: In Nigeria, issues like duplicate registrations and ineligible voters often undermine the integrity of the electoral roll. AI can significantly enhance the accuracy and efficiency of these processes. For example, AI-driven facial recognition technology can ensure each voter is registered only once, reducing multiple registrations.
Additionally, Natural Language Processing (NLP) can analyze and verify voter details, ensuring all registrations are legitimate and accurate. Estonia’s AI-enhanced electronic ID system is a great example of how such technologies can reduce fraud.
*What steps can Nigeria take to streamline its voting and counting processes*
Answer: AI can make voting and counting processes faster and more accurate. Machine learning algorithms can automate ballot counting, reducing human error and speeding up the process. Moreover, predictive analytics can forecast voter turnout and identify potential issues before they arise, allowing for proactive management and resource allocation. This ensures smooth operation on election day, similar to the UK’s use of electronic counting machines.
*Cybersecurity is a critical concern for elections. How can AI help protect the integrity of the electoral process in Nigeria*
Answer: Cybersecurity is indeed crucial. AI can play a significant role in detecting and responding to cyber threats in real-time.
AI systems can monitor network traffic for unusual activities and take pre-emptive actions to mitigate threats. Additionally, advanced encryption algorithms can secure sensitive voter data and election results,
making them tamper-proof and preventing data breaches.
*Transparency in results management is essential for maintaining public trust. How can AI and blockchain technology enhance this aspect*
Answer: Transparency is key to maintaining public trust. Integrating blockchain technology with AI can provide a transparent and immutable ledger of votes, ensuring that all results are verifiable and tamper-proof. AI can also automate the collation and reporting of results, providing real-time updates accessible to the public.
This approach ensures transparency and helps build confidence in the electoral process, as seen in Switzerland’s use of blockchain in elections.
*What strategic recommendations do you have for Nigeria to effectively implement AI and cybersecurity solutions in its election process*
Question: To effectively implement these solutions, Nigeria and INEC should consider the following steps:
1. *Invest in Technology Infrastructure:* Build a robust technological infrastructure to support AI and cybersecurity initiatives. This includes upgrading existing systems and investing in new technologies.
2. *Training and Capacity Building:* Invest in continuous education and training programs for INEC staff to manage and operate new technologies effectively.
3. *Collaborate with Tech Experts:* Partner with technology companies and cybersecurity experts to develop and implement advanced solutions.
4. *Public Awareness Campaigns:* Educate the public on the benefits of new technologies to ensure widespread acceptance and trust.
5. *Pilot Programs:* Implement pilot programs in select regions to test and refine AI and cybersecurity solutions before a nationwide rollout. Pilot programs can provide valuable insights and help identify potential challenges.
*In conclusion, what can Nigeria learn from the UK’s 2024 election process*
Answer: The UK’s 2024 election process demonstrates how AI and cybersecurity can enhance election efficiency, accuracy, and transparency. By adopting these technologies, Nigeria can address many of its electoral challenges, thereby strengthening its democratic processes and public trust. With strategic planning and investment, INEC can transform Nigeria’s electoral landscape, ensuring fair, secure, and efficiently managed elections.
*Thank you for sharing your insights. It’s clear that with the right approach, Nigeria can significantly improve its election process*
Answer: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure discussing these important issues.
News
FEC approves ₦47.9tn 2025 budget
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
The Federal Executive Council, FEC, has approved a proposed national budget of ₦47.9 trillion for the 2025 fiscal year.
Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, disclosed this on Thursday while briefing State House correspondents after the FEC meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu.
This was part of the Medium-Term Expenditures Framework, MTEF, for 2025 to 2027 and in line with the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2007.
“And equally, the fiscal objectives were conservative, because we want to ensure that we study the course much as we believe the projections will be exceeded.
“The budget size that was approved for presentation to the National Assembly in the MTEP is ₦47.9 trillion, with new borrowings of ₦9.2 trillion to finance the budget deficit in 2025,” Bagudu said.
“We need to sustain the market deregulation, commendable market deregulation of petroleum prices and exchange rate, and to compel the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited to lower its oil and gas production cost significantly, and even to consider the need to amend the relevant sections of the petroleum industry act 2021 to address the significant risk to Federation.
“The Federal Executive Council approved the Medium Term Expenditure Framework and the physical strategy paper, and it will be submitted to the National Assembly.
“This is in addition to bills that are already at the National Assembly, the economic stabilization bills and tax reform bills, which we believe we will have a very, very strong growth in 2025.”
During the meeting, the FEC approved its submission to the National Assembly as required by the 2007 Fiscal Responsibility Act.
The framework projected a gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate of 4.6 percent, an exchange rate of $75 to the naira, and oil production of 2.06 million barrels per day. [Channels TV]
News
Nigeria to get 6,000 power generation by December-Power Minister vows
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has expressed his unwavering optimism that the government will successfully meet its ambitious target of generating 6,000 megawatts of electricity by December 2024, despite the numerous challenges currently affecting the power sector.
The Special Adviser on Strategic Communication and Media Relations, Bolaji Tunji, conveyed this assurance at the fourth edition of the Power Correspondents Association of Nigeria’s annual workshop, themed “Ending the Talk, Moving the Action,” held on Thursday in Abuja.
Nigeria’s power generation currently ranges between 3,500 and 4,000 MW for a population of approximately 200 million people. For instance, on Thursday, the country’s power generation was 3,556.38 MW as of 8 am.
Earlier this year, Adelabu pledged that power generation in Nigeria would reach 6,000 MW by the end of the year, citing improvements in the sector over the past year.
However, the frequent collapse of the nation’s electricity grid and the vandalisation of towers have raised concerns about the stability of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry and its ability to achieve the target.
In his goodwill address, the Special Adviser emphasised that the minister’s primary focus remains on achieving the goal of increasing generation and ensuring its efficient distribution to consumers.
Tunji said, “The minister aims to achieve what seems to be an intractable goal—improving generation and ensuring that what is generated reaches the final consumers. There are challenges, but they are surmountable.
“The minister has promised that by December this year, we will reach 6,000 megawatts; yes, we still hope to get there.
“We are confident that we will get there, but we are aware of the current issues with grid collapse. Efforts are being made to resolve these problems. Day and night, teams are being dispatched to address the various issues, and we remain hopeful that we will achieve the 6,000 MW target by December.”
The Director of Renewable Energy, Sunday Owolabi, also reiterated that the government is committed to ensuring 24-hour power supply for Nigerians.
Owolabi, another representative of the minister, stressed that the government’s policies are focused on resolving the challenges facing the country’s electricity transmission, distribution, and generation sub-sectors.
“We are fully committed to transforming the country’s power sector. We are focused on ensuring that our policies are practical and sustainable. We are resolute in ensuring power supply for every Nigerian.
“The government remains fully committed to transforming Nigeria’s power sector through meaningful and actionable reforms.
“We are focused on ensuring that our policies are not only visionary but also practical, impactful, and sustainable. From the ongoing efforts to address infrastructure gaps, enhance power generation, and improve transmission networks, to vital reforms in distribution and the full implementation of the electricity market, we are resolute in our mission to improve power supply for every Nigerian.”
News
Just in: Wike sends FCDA Executive Director on indefinite suspension
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike has suspended the Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Shehu Hadi Ahmad indefinitely.
According to a statement on Thursday, by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media to the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the suspension of Engr Hadi Ahmad is with immediate effect.
The suspended Executive Secretary has consequently been directed to hand over to the Director of Engineering Services, in the FCDA.
Meanwhile, Nyesom Wike has revealed that President Bola Tinubu ordered the construction of houses for judges in Abuja.
The former Rivers State governor said the project is part of the government’s plan to provide secure housing for judges and strengthen the judiciary’s independence.
Speaking during a media chat on Wednesday, the former Rivers Governor clarified that the housing project is not his personal initiative.
Wike explained that the housing scheme was included in the 2024 budget, approved by the National Assembly, and is not his personal decision.
He added that judges currently live in rented homes, which could make them vulnerable.
He compared this to similar projects he carried out as Rivers State governor and expressed surprise at the criticism, especially from legal professionals.
Wike insisted the project is lawful and should be welcomed as a step in the right direction.
-
News19 hours ago
Trump picks ex-Democrat Tulsi Gabbard as US Intel Chief
-
News19 hours ago
NNPC Carries Out Leadership Shakeup, Appoints Adedapo Segun As New CFO
-
News19 hours ago
JUST IN: Govt Declares Friday As Public Holiday
-
News18 hours ago
Umahi Frowns At Slow Pace Of Suleja-Minna Road Construction
-
News18 hours ago
Abia Assembly orders Deputy Governor, Emetu to apologise over assault on House member
-
News18 hours ago
NYSC announces date for ‘2024 Batch C’ registration
-
News18 hours ago
NNPC, Dangote Sign GSPA Agreement To Boost Local Production, Revamp Industrial Growth
-
News14 hours ago
Mikel Obi explains how Kai Havertz dishonoured Chelsea fans