Rise Networks and Partners Launch ₦10m AI Hackathon for Elections
Rise Networks, in collaboration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Meta, Google, and Microsoft, has launched a ₦10 million artificial intelligence (AI) hackathon ahead of Nigeria's 2027 general elections. The hackathon, named #AI4Elections Hackathon 2026–2027, will award ₦4 million to the overall winner, ₦2.5 million to the runner-up, and ₦1.5 million to the third-place winner.
Additionally, four special prizes of ₦500,000 each will be awarded for innovations in various categories. Applications opened on October 22, 2026, and will close on November 12, 2026.
The program runs from October 2026 to February 2027, culminating in a national finale and innovation showcase in Lagos on December 16, 2026. Dr Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, founder of Rise Networks, emphasized the importance of responsible technological innovation to protect electoral integrity and citizens' rights.
The initiative aims to address concerns about AI's influence on information and electoral processes, building on previous efforts to combat misinformation during Nigeria's 2023 elections.
Plus234Feed summary based on reporting from Leadership Newspaper. Read the original report below.
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