Anambra Launches SmartGov AI platform For 24/7 Government Services.

The Anambra State Government has launched the beta version of SmartGov, a digital governance platform designed to give residents access to more than 31 public services through a single online interface.

According to a statement released by the state on Wednesday, SmartGov enables citizens to access government information and services remotely, using artificial intelligence to guide users through required procedures and service workflows.

The platform is accessible via the web, voice-enabled channels, and WhatsApp, and is aimed at reducing dependence on physical government offices, paperwork, and manual processes.

AI-powered digital assistant

At the core of SmartGov is NORA, an AI-powered digital assistant trained on Anambra State government services, processes, and official directories.

NORA is designed to understand plain-language queries, respond with accurate information, and direct users to the appropriate service, requirements, or digital portal.

The state said SmartGov currently spans eight service categories, including:

Taxes and revenue

Land and property

Business services

Health

Education

Security and complaints

Transport and vehicles

Culture and tourism

Users interact with the platform by asking questions, receiving step-by-step guidance, and completing transactions where available.

The platform operates 24/7 and supports multilingual access in English and Igbo, addressing challenges such as limited office hours, distance from government offices, and complex administrative procedures.

Simplifying government–citizen interactions

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, said the platform was developed to simplify how citizens engage with government services.

He described SmartGov as a central access point for official information and services across the state.

“SmartGov is more than a service directory. It is an intelligent gateway that makes government interactions simple, fast, and reliable,” Agbata said.

The beta launch also includes a feedback mechanism that allows users to report issues or suggest improvements. Feedback can be submitted via the platform’s website, with the AI assistant available to guide users through the process when necessary.

The state noted that this complements existing grievance redress systems and official government email channels.

What you should know

Anambra’s SmartGov initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s digitisation agenda for the Nigerian civil service.

In June, the Federal Government directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to fully digitise their operations and adopt paperless workflows by the end of 2025.

According to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, the transition is a key pillar of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025 (FCSSIP 25), which concludes on December 31.

The reform agenda prioritises digital transformation, improved performance management, and more efficient public service delivery across government institutions.