Anambra State has launched a beta version of SmartGov, an artificial intelligence–powered digital platform designed to transform how citizens access government services, signalling a deeper push by the state to use technology as the backbone of governance.
The launch builds on Anambra’s growing reputation in digital governance. The state was recently recognised at the National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, where it won four national awards, including Best Overall Performing State in Digital Technology Development and Best State in Human Capital Development.
Chukwuemeka Agbata, Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Anambra State ICT Agency, told a press conference in Lagos recently that SmartGov was developed with a strong focus on citizen experience.
“SmartGov is more than a service directory. It is an intelligent gateway that makes government interactions simple, fast and reliable,” Agbata said.
He added that Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has consistently promoted technology as central to governance under the administration’s “Everything Technology, Technology Everywhere” vision.
“SmartGov is a practical expression of this vision. By embedding AI into everyday government services, Anambra State is making governance more transparent, accessible and efficient for Ndi Anambra,” he said.
The platform, accessible at smart.anambrastate.gov.ng, brings more than 31 public services into a single digital gateway, allowing residents to obtain information, complete transactions and navigate government processes without visiting physical offices. Officials say the initiative is aimed at cutting bureaucracy, improving service delivery and expanding access to government beyond traditional office hours.
At the heart of SmartGov is NORA, an AI-driven digital assistant trained on Anambra State’s government services, procedures and official directories. Unlike conventional portals that rely on forms and layered menus, SmartGov enables users to interact with the government through natural, conversational language, guiding them to the right service or requirement based on their questions.
Citizens can engage the platform through a simple three-step process: asking questions in plain language, receiving AI-generated guidance tailored to the request, and completing transactions or obtaining answers online. The system also supports WhatsApp integration and voice-enabled access, broadening usability for residents with different levels of digital literacy.
The platform currently spans eight major service categories, including Taxes and Revenue, Land and Property, Business Services, Health, Education, Security and Complaints, Transport and Vehicles, as well as Culture and Tourism. Officials say additional services will be added as the platform evolves beyond the beta phase.
SmartGov operates 24 hours a day and supports both English and Igbo, a feature the state government says is critical to inclusion. By removing barriers such as location, office hours and complex paperwork, the platform is intended to make public services more accessible to individuals, businesses and visitors.
From business registration enquiries and tax payments to vehicle documentation and locating nearby health facilities, SmartGov is designed to provide consistent and accurate guidance across government interactions. The platform is supported by a continuously updated government service directory to ensure information remains current.
As part of the beta rollout, the state has opened a dedicated feedback channel to gather user input and refine the platform. Citizens can submit feedback directly through the SmartGov website, while NORA can also guide users through the feedback process where necessary. The platform complements existing channels such as the Grievance Redress Mechanism and official government email systems.
Agbata explained the beta phase is intended to test functionality, user experience and scalability, with feedback playing a key role in shaping future improvements.
“With SmartGov, we are inviting citizens to actively participate in improving how the government works,” he said. “Their feedback during this phase will help us make the platform stronger and more responsive.”
Read the full article here
