### Minister of Youth Development Praises Naija Elections AI Tool for Empowering Nigerian Youths in Electoral Process
Dr. Jamila Ibrahim, Minister of Youth Development, has highlighted the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on Nigeria’s electoral landscape, particularly through the introduction of the Naija Elections AI tool. Developed by the Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) with support from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), this tool aims to revolutionize how Nigerian youths engage in electoral activities.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in Abuja, Dr. Ibrahim emphasized the tool’s significance in fostering meaningful participation in democracy among Nigerian youths. She underscored the importance of technology and accurate information in equipping young people with the necessary tools and knowledge to actively engage in electoral processes.
“The Naija electoral AI tool heralds a new era in which every Nigerian can participate meaningfully in our electoral process,” stated Dr. Ibrahim. She highlighted the platform’s role in providing youths with easy access to real-time electoral information, enabling them to make informed decisions and contribute effectively to Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Dr. Ibrahim also emphasized the government’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance democratic processes, especially as Nigeria celebrates 25 years of uninterrupted democracy.
Bukola Idowu, Executive Director of KDI, further elaborated on the tool’s capabilities, emphasizing its role in combating misinformation, enhancing voter education, and providing reliable electoral knowledge sourced directly from official channels like the Constitution and INEC. The platform, designed to be accessible without the need for personal data storage, supports multiple Nigerian languages and aims to expand its reach to encompass up to 150 languages by the next election in 2027.
Cynthia Rowe, Development Director at FCDO, highlighted the importance of informed voters in strengthening democracy, stressing that platforms like Naija Elections play a crucial role in providing accurate information amidst global challenges of misinformation and disinformation.
The Naija Elections AI tool, accessible at www.naijaelections.ng, represents a significant step towards enhancing democratic engagement in Nigeria, supported by KDI’s commitment to citizen-led democratic development and advocacy.
This initiative marks a milestone in leveraging technology to empower Nigerian youths and ensure a more inclusive and informed electoral process.