The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has warned that artificial intelligence (AI)-generated misinformation, deepfake videos and cyberattacks could be used to manipulate voters ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
NITDA Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, gave the warning on Wednesday in Abuja during a briefing on preparations for the International Cybersecurity Conference 2026.
Abdullahi said advances in AI had made it easier for malicious actors to create convincing fake videos, audio recordings and political messages capable of misleading voters and undermining public trust.
He urged Nigerians to verify political information before believing or sharing it online, warning that cybercriminals increasingly exploit human vulnerabilities through social engineering rather than attacking computer systems alone.
The NITDA chief also warned that criminals could hijack AI agents used by organisations to automate business operations, stressing the need for stronger cybersecurity measures and human oversight.
He said the forthcoming conference, themed “Cyber Resilience in the Age of AI: Defending Minds, Networks, and Nations,” would address emerging threats, including deepfakes, cognitive manipulation, cybercrime and attacks on critical infrastructure.
According to Abdullahi, the conference will bring together government officials, businesses and international stakeholders to strengthen cooperation, develop local cybersecurity expertise and improve Nigeria’s capacity to respond to emerging digital threats.
He urged public and private organisations to invest in cybersecurity and digital literacy, adding that protecting information and digital infrastructure was essential to public confidence and the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.
