Anambra State has taken a decisive step toward digital governance with the launch of SmartGov, a new artificial intelligence powered platform designed to bring dozens of government services into a single, easy-to-use digital space.
Released in beta, the platform allows residents to access more than 31 public services without visiting government offices or navigating layers of paperwork. Instead, citizens can obtain information, receive guidance, and complete selected processes remotely through a web portal, voice-enabled channels, and WhatsApp.
At the heart of SmartGov is an AI digital assistant known as NORA, built and trained specifically on Anambra State’s government structures, procedures, and service directories. Rather than forcing users to understand bureaucratic language, the assistant responds to everyday questions, guiding citizens step by step to the right service, requirement, or online process.
The platform currently spans eight major service areas, including taxation and revenue, land and property administration, business services, health, education, transport and vehicle-related services, security and complaints, as well as culture and tourism. Users can interact with the system around the clock, with support available in both English and Igbo to broaden accessibility.
The initiative is aimed at removing long-standing barriers to public service delivery, such as limited office hours, physical distance from government offices, and the complexity of administrative procedures. By centralising services and information, SmartGov is expected to save time for citizens while improving transparency and efficiency across government operations.
According to the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, the platform represents a shift in how government engages with the public. He described SmartGov not merely as a digital directory, but as an intelligent access point that redefines the citizen experience. “SmartGov is an intelligent gateway that makes government interactions simple, fast, and reliable,” he said.
The beta version also incorporates a built-in feedback system, allowing users to report challenges, flag gaps, or suggest improvements directly through the platform. The AI assistant can guide users through submitting feedback, complementing existing grievance redress mechanisms and official communication channels.
With SmartGov, Anambra is positioning itself at the forefront of subnational digital governance in Nigeria, signalling a broader ambition to use technology not just to digitise services, but to fundamentally improve how government works for its people.
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