In recent years, the electoral process in Nigeria has been impaired by various challenges such as logistical hurdles, transparency concerns, and suboptimal technology utilization during recent elections. Overcoming these obstacles is vital for bolstering the nation’s democratic procedures and boosting confidence in the electoral system. During the 2023 general election, Nigeria implemented a range of technologies with the goal of enhancing the electoral process. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) introduced several cutting-edge technologies, such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), and Electronic Transmission of Results.
Reception towards the implementation and impact of these technologies was varied as the effective integration of these technological advancements has proven to be quite challenging. Though the utilization of technology during the 2023 elections showed a dedication to modernizing the voting system, struggles in implementation and failure to fully maximize the capabilities of these technologies emphasized the necessity for improvement moving forward. Experts and stakeholders are advocating for enhanced testing, improved training, and the resolution of infrastructure deficiencies to guarantee the successful and dependable application of technology in upcoming elections.
Utilizing agile principles can enhance the techs efficiency.
The utilization of technology in Nigeria’s electoral system has the capability to bring about a significant transformation through improved efficiency, transparency, and credibility. It can streamline crucial steps such as voter registration and verification, electronic voting and result transmission and monitoring, as well as voter education and outreach. It is believed that Utilizing agile principles and practices can enhance the utilization and efficiency of technologies such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System and the INEC Result Viewing Portal within Nigeria’s electoral system.
Implementing agile methodologies such as continuous integration and continuous delivery can help guarantee that enhancements and modifications to BVAS and IReV are consistently and smoothly integrated, tested, and rolled out, reducing the chances of technical glitches or conflicts. By utilizing Agile’s emphasis on user participation and feedback, BVAS and IReV could be tailored to meet the requirements and perspectives of voters, poll officials, and other interested parties. This may include running user tests, collecting input, and implementing adjustments based on practical usage scenarios.
Incorporating technology, agile methods in electoral process.
Additionally, implementing regular knowledge sharing and training sessions is essential for ensuring that poll officials, technical staff, and stakeholders are well-prepared to use and maintain BVAS and IReV properly. Embracing agile methodologies may be challenging as it necessitates a change in mindset and organizational culture at INEC and similar entities. To successfully implement agile practices, governments must be willing to invest in training, infrastructure, and resources to support the transition to new work methods. The focus is on creating systems that are flexible and scalable.
Applying this approach can help BVAS and IReV effectively manage different levels of workload and intricacies in various regions, while also being adaptable to evolving demands and emerging technologies. The advantages of utilizing agile methodologies may lead to enhanced electoral technologies that are more responsive and dependable, greater collaboration among stakeholders, and a system that is capable of adjusting to shifting requirements and obstacles. By incorporating technology and agile methods, Nigeria’s electoral process has a unique chance to reinforce its democratic systems, enhance the efficiency, credibility, and transparency of elections.
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In order for successful implementation to occur, the government must provide the necessary funding for infrastructure, training, and resources. It is crucial to have robust cybersecurity measures such as penetration testing, secure coding techniques, and protection against fraud and DDoS attacks in place for effective solutions. Sovereignty and data privacy are key considerations to keep in mind throughout the process. Ultimately, the technological strategy should align with the principles of election process transparency, flexibility of software, involvement of stakeholders, and ability to be audited.
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