Senior Non-Key Expert – Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Expert at DAI

Brief description of the project: This technical assistance contract is aiming to lead the implementation of activities under Component 1 of the Programme –Support to INEC. This will require close synergy, coordination and collaboration with other components of the programme, with high priority on delivering as one. Furthermore, the Component 1 of the programme will, under the supervision of the Delegation, support monitoring and evaluation as well as communication and visibility activities across the six components to ensure a coherent and efficient programme delivery.

The purposes of this contract are as follows:

• To engender the conditions for inclusive, transparent, credible, and peaceful elections and a more inclusive decision-making process with the meaningful participation of all sectors of society, including women, youth, and other marginalised groups.
• In collaboration with the technical team of the Chairman of the electoral management Body (INEC) already embedded in the programme– Chief Technical Adviser, Special Adviser and Chief Press Secretary - provide capacity development support, technical assistance, policy and expert advice to the electoral management Body – the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
• To contribute to the implementation of the EU Electoral Observation Missions (EU EOM) recommendations, as well as EU EOM follow up mission recommendations.
• Under the direction of the EU Delegation, support Monitoring and Evaluation as well as communication and visibility activities across the programme components.
   

DAI is looking to recruit: Senior Non-Key Expert – Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Expert

• Background With the increasing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in governance, election management bodies must leverage AI-driven solutions to enhance efficiency, transparency, and security in electoral processes. INEC has established an AI Division under its ICT Department and requires support for - AI adoption in voter registration, election logistics management, results management and public communications. For this purpose, DAI, under the EUSDGN project is recruiting a senior AI and machine learning expert who will work with INEC on the below listed objectives.

Objectives

• Provide strategic guidance on AI and ML integration in election management, specifically voter registration, election logistics management, results management and communications.
• Assess AI use cases for improving voter registration, election logistics monitoring, results management and communications.
• Offer recommendations for AI governance, ethics, and risk management in electoral processes.
• Ensure compliance with national and international AI policies and regulations.
• Advise on AI capacity-building initiatives for INEC staff.
• Scope of Work The AI and ML Advisor will:
• Conduct AI readiness assessments within INEC operations, particularly focusing on voter registration, election logistics management, results management and public communications.
• Advise on AI-driven tools for electoral data analysis and predictive modelling.
• Develop a framework for training and capacity building on the deployment of AI in INEC.
• Support AI-based security enhancements to detect cyber threats, disinformation and electoral fraud.
• Develop guidelines for ethical AI use in Nigerian elections.
• Monitor AI risks and suggest mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate with stakeholders (policymakers, electoral officials, and tech experts) to ensure AI-driven innovations align with democratic principles.

Key Deliverables

• AI readiness assessment report and recommendations for the AI unit
• Strategic reports on AI integration in election management.
• AI governance framework for election integrity.
• Ethical AI guidelines tailored for EMB operations.
• A comprehensive AI and ML capacity building plan for INEC.
• Line Management and reporting The SNKE will report to the TL and works in partnership with KE2, the Director of the INEC ICT department and the Technical Team of the INEC Chairman.
• Required expertise The expert must possess and demonstrate the following:
• At least a master’s degree in ICT relates fields.
• At least 15 years of experience in election administration with an election technology focus and excellent knowledge of ICT supported election operations
• Experienced in undertaking reviews, studies, and research in the field of elections and election technology
• Substantial working knowledge of elections in Nigeria
• Prior experience working on AI and ML with an EMB an advantage

Technical expertise required:

• Programming Skills: Proficiency in languages like Python, R, and Java is essential for building and deploying AI models.
• Machine Learning Frameworks: Familiarity with TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn, and other tools helps in developing AI models.
• Deep Learning & Neural Networks: Knowledge of neural architectures like CNNs, RNNs, and transformers is highly valuable.
• Cloud Computing & Deployment: Experience with cloud platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure for deploying AI models at scale.
• Ethics & AI Governance: Understanding responsible AI, bias mitigation, and regulations around AI applications.
• Proficiency in AI algorithms, data modelling, and predictive analytics.
• Expertise in machine learning techniques, including natural language processing (NLP) and computer vision.
• Experience in developing AI-driven fraud detection systems.
• Ability to design automation tools for voter registration, election logistics management, results management and communications.
• Thorough understanding of electoral systems, voting technologies, election operations, logistics voter registration, communications and media
• Knowledge of legal frameworks governing AI use in elections.
• Ability to advise on ethical AI practices to uphold election integrity and transparency.
• Ability to assess and mitigate risks associated with AI deployment in elections.
• Knowledge of data protection regulations, such as GDPR for international compliance.
• AI Policy & Ethical Considerations
• Familiarity with global AI policies, including responsible AI governance.
• Ability to create guidelines for ethical AI use in election processes.
• Understanding of bias mitigation in AI models to ensure fair electoral practices.
• Strategic Advisory & Capacity Building
• Experience in advising government agencies on AI implementation.
• Ability to design capacity-building programs for EMB officials.