# Rise Networks and partners launch ₦10m AI hackathon for Nigeria’s 2027 elections

Digest AI · Policy & Regulation · published 2026-10-26T07:40:00Z

Canonical: https://digestai.news/story/rise-networks-and-partners-launch-10m-ai-hackathon-for-nigerias-2027-e

## Summary

#AI4Elections Hackathon 2026–2027, backed by Rise Networks, INEC, Meta, Google, and Microsoft, offers ₦10 million in prizes for AI-driven election integrity solutions. The competition, running from October 2026 to February 2027, targets misinformation, cybersecurity, and inclusive civic tech. Applications close November 12, 2026, with a national finale in Lagos on December 16, 2026. The program includes a Development Hub and Community of Practice to support winners beyond the competition, focusing on trustworthy AI for elections. Dr Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji of Rise Networks emphasized responsible innovation, citing past projects like the AI-powered misinformation detection tool used in Nigeria’s 2023 elections. Meta’s Sade Dada highlighted the company’s

## Key points

- ₦10 million prize pool: ₦4m top prize, ₦2.5m second, ₦1.5m third, plus four ₦500k special awards
- Applications open until November 12, 2026; finalists showcase solutions in Lagos on December 16, 2026
- Focus areas: electoral integrity, cybersecurity, inclusive tech, and AI safety, with no partisan campaign tools allowed

## Why it matters

The hackathon aims to counter AI-driven election risks like misinformation and cyberattacks while fostering local tech talent. Its focus on responsible innovation could set a regional model for balancing technology and democratic trust.

## Sources

1. [Rise Networks, INEC, Meta, Google, Microsoft Launch ₦10m AI Election Hackathon](https://leadership.ng/rise-networks-inec-meta-google-microsoft-launch-%e2%82%a610m-ai-election-hackathon) (leadership.ng, 2026-10-26)

## Cite

Digest AI, "Rise Networks and partners launch ₦10m AI hackathon for Nigeria’s 2027 elections", 26 October 2026, https://digestai.news/story/rise-networks-and-partners-launch-10m-ai-hackathon-for-nigerias-2027-e

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