The Anambra State Government has launched SmartGov, an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered digital platform designed to improve citizens’ access to government information and public services.
The move underscores Nigeria’s growing adoption of digital technologies to modernise governance and enhance public service delivery.
Developed by the Anambra State ICT Agency, the platform enables residents to obtain verified government information through a conversational virtual assistant known as NORA, allowing users to ask questions in plain language and receive instant responses without navigating multiple government websites or making repeated visits to public offices.
According to a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Angela Nwanodu, SmartGov is designed to simplify interactions between citizens and government by providing faster and more convenient access to essential public services.
The platform provides guidance on a wide range of government services, including tax payments, business registration, applications for Certificates of Occupancy, healthcare services and other official procedures. It also directs users to the appropriate government agencies and provides links to available online services.
Speaking on the platform, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, said SmartGov forms part of the state’s broader e-governance strategy aimed at making public service delivery more accessible, efficient and citizen-centred.
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“Digital transformation is not just about adopting technology. It is about improving how government delivers services, engages citizens and creates a better experience for every resident,” Agbata said.
He explained that the platform is built on the principle of citizen self-service, enabling users to independently access verified government information anytime and from any location. He also encouraged residents to provide feedback to support the continuous improvement of the platform.
Unlike conventional government websites that require users to know which ministry, department or agency is responsible for a particular service, SmartGov uses natural language processing technology to understand users’ requests and guide them to the relevant information or service.
Officials said the digital solution is expected to reduce the time citizens spend searching for government information, improve service delivery, strengthen transparency and deepen citizen engagement through a single, user-friendly interface.
The launch comes amid growing global adoption of artificial intelligence in public administration, with governments increasingly deploying AI-powered digital assistants to improve efficiency, transparency and access to public services.
The Anambra State Government said SmartGov aligns with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of building a digitally driven state through innovation and technology-enabled governance.
Residents can access SmartGov via the website where government information and services are available through a simple question-and-answer interface.
Officials added that SmartGov is designed to complement, rather than replace, existing government service channels by helping citizens quickly identify the appropriate offices and procedures for their enquiries while ensuring that human support remains available for more complex cases.
