The Independent National Electoral Commission on Wednesday commenced a two-day capacity-building workshop for staff of its Voter Education and Publicity Department in Keffi, Nasarawa State, aimed at strengthening strategic communication and improving the monitoring of misinformation ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
In a statement posted on the Commission’s official X page, Deputy Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Mr Wilfred Ifogah, who represented the Director, Mrs Victoria Eta-Messi, described the training as “timely and relevant, as the Commission continues preparations for electoral activities in 2026 and beyond.”
He explained that although the programme had been planned before previous elections, operational demands had delayed its implementation.
“We must be proactive in monitoring the media space, responding effectively to false narratives, and protecting the integrity of the electoral process,” Ifogah said.
He urged participants to approach the sessions with open minds and to share practical experiences to enhance collective learning.
Ifogah also highlighted the growing challenges posed by emerging technologies and artificial intelligence in the spread of false information and stressed the importance of collaboration within INEC and with external stakeholders.
“Interdepartmental collaboration and engagement with stakeholders are critical in building public trust and ensuring credible elections,” he said.
The training, organised in partnership with the International Foundation for Electoral Systems, began with participant introductions led by IFES Nigeria Project Manager Ms. Judith Toryem.
A session on strategic communication, public perception, and social media strategies in electoral contexts was delivered by Mr. Obaje Ukeh, IFES Kenya Country Director and Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist for Nigeria, who noted that:
“How information is managed can significantly influence citizens’ confidence in the electoral process.”
INEC stated that the workshop is expected to enhance staff capacity to navigate the evolving information landscape effectively and strengthen public confidence in the electoral process ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a related development, INEC warned the public to disregard a false article circulating online claiming that the Commission had released the timetable for the 2027 elections.
“This information is not authentic and should be disregarded in its entirety,” the Commission said, adding that it has not released “any official timetable, schedule of activities, or dates for the 2027 General Elections.”
