From Government Offices to Your Phone: How SmartGov Is Changing Access to Services in Anambra

By Our Reporter

Imagine needing information about land documentation, tax payments, business registration or healthcare in Anambra and getting the answer without joining a queue, making repeated visits to government offices or trying to figure out which agency handles your request.

That is the problem the Anambra State ICT Agency is seeking to address with SmartGov, an AI-powered platform designed to give residents a simpler way to interact with government.

Instead of navigating complex government processes alone, Ndi Anambra can use SmartGov to ask questions in everyday language and receive information on the services they need.

At the centre of the platform is NORA, an intelligent assistant that processes citizens’ requests using verified government information sources. It then provides relevant responses and, where available, directs users to the appropriate online service or next step.

For residents, the idea is straightforward: ask a question, get reliable information and know what to do next.

Whether it is a resident seeking to understand how to pay taxes, a landowner looking for information on obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy, an entrepreneur trying to register a business or someone searching for information about healthcare services, SmartGov is designed to reduce the uncertainty that often comes with accessing public services.

The platform represents a shift towards citizen self-service, allowing people to obtain government information at their convenience rather than depending entirely on physical interactions with public offices.

Beyond convenience, the initiative reflects the growing role of technology in reshaping how governments communicate with citizens and deliver public services.

For the Anambra State ICT Agency, SmartGov is part of a broader e-governance strategy aimed at making government more accessible, efficient and responsive.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Mr. Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata (CFA), said the goal of digital transformation should go beyond simply introducing new technology.

“Digital transformation is not just about adopting technology; it is about using innovation to improve the way government delivers services, engages with the people, and creates a better experience for every resident,” Agbata said.

He also stressed the importance of citizens playing a role in the continuous development of the platform by sharing their experiences and feedback.

“We encourage Ndi Anambra to explore the platform and share their feedback. Continuous user feedback will help us continue improving SmartGov and ensure it better serves the needs of Ndi Anambra,” he added.

The initiative supports Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s broader vision of a digitally driven Anambra, where technology and innovation are increasingly deployed to improve public administration and service delivery.

SmartGov can be accessed at smart.anambrastate.gov.ng, while users can submit feedback through the SmartGov feedback portal.

As more government services move into the digital space, platforms such as SmartGov could increasingly become the first point of contact between citizens and government.

For Ndi Anambra, that transformation begins with something as simple as asking a question.

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