By 'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - In a significant move to combat misinformation, disinformation, and fake news in Nigeria's electoral process, the Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) has unveiled an innovative AI-powered tool aimed at bridging the electoral information gap. The 'Naija Election App,' developed indigenously and funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), promises to enhance electoral transparency and inclusivity.
The official launch of the platform, www.naijaelections.ng, took place in Abuja on June 13. Minister for Youth Development, Jamila Bio Ibrahim, praised the initiative as a historic achievement. Initially skeptical about the AI tool, Ibrahim acknowledged that it surpasses mere information dissemination and plays a crucial role in fostering inclusivity, a cornerstone of democratic governance.
"Yesterday, we celebrated twenty-five years of uninterrupted democracy, and unveiling this landmark application today is historic," Ibrahim stated. "This platform goes beyond information sharing; it promotes an inclusive democracy where everyone feels part of the decision-making process. The 'Naija Election App' educates and transcends age barriers, enabling both youths and the elderly to participate in the electoral process by overcoming information obstacles."
Ibrahim also highlighted the government's commitment to increasing youth participation in politics and governance, noting the federal executive council's recent policy mandating that 30 percent of all appointive positions be reserved for youths.
Bukola Idowu, Executive Director of KDI, detailed the app's features, emphasizing its role in enhancing electoral knowledge and acting as a reliable fact-checking tool. "We designed this tool to enhance electoral knowledge, making every user a mobile fact-checker with information sourced directly from official channels," Idowu explained. "Unlike many AI tools, this app does not hallucinate and provides accurate, verified information without the need for cross-checking. Users can access the platform without signing up, and no data is stored, ensuring privacy and security."
Idowu also revealed plans to support over 100 Nigerian languages on the app before the next general elections, ensuring widespread accessibility and usability across different linguistic groups.
Cynthia Rowe, FCDO's Development Director, praised the app as a timely and essential tool for Nigeria's diverse and complex demographic landscape. "This groundbreaking platform simplifies complex electoral information into easily digestible key points, making it easier for people to make informed choices on election day," Rowe remarked. "The UK's commitment to supporting Nigeria's democratic process remains strong, and we are open to backing initiatives like this whenever possible."
Key features of the 'Naija Election App' include real-time election data, information in four languages (English, Igbo, Hausa, and Yoruba), speech-to-text and text-to-speech capabilities, and visual modes to support the visually impaired.
The launch event was attended by representatives from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, diplomatic missions, civil society organizations, students, and youth groups, highlighting the broad support and interest in this innovative electoral tool.