The Anambra State Government has announced an ambitious plan to transform into a fully digital government and formalise all small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating within the state by the year 2030. This initiative, revealed by the Managing Director of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, is designed to enhance revenue generation, improve service delivery, and integrate the informal business sector into the formal economy.
Digital Transformation Roadmap
Speaking at a stakeholders' engagement forum in Awka, Agbata outlined the state's roadmap towards achieving a paperless administration. He noted that the digitalisation agenda is a key component of Governor Chukwuma Soludo's vision to reposition Anambra as a leading hub for innovation and efficient governance in Nigeria.
“Our goal is to ensure that by 2030, every government service in Anambra State is accessible online, eliminating the need for physical visits and reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks,” Agbata stated. He emphasised that the transition would not only cut costs but also increase transparency and accountability in public administration.
Formalising the Informal Sector
A significant aspect of the plan involves the formalisation of all SMEs across the state. According to the agency, there are currently over 500,000 SMEs in Anambra, many of which operate informally without proper registration or tax compliance. The government aims to bring these businesses into the formal fold through simplified registration processes, digital platforms for tax payment, and targeted incentives.
Agbata explained that formalising SMEs is crucial for economic growth, as it will enable businesses to access credit facilities, government support, and larger markets. “We are working with various stakeholders, including market associations and trade groups, to ensure a smooth transition that benefits both the government and the business owners,” he added.
Implementation and Impact
The ICT agency plans to deploy a robust digital infrastructure, including a central data repository and integrated payment systems, to support the initiative. The state government has also partnered with technology firms to provide training and support for SMEs to help them adapt to digital tools.
Analysts believe that Anambra's move could serve as a model for other states in Nigeria, particularly in the South-East region. The formalisation of SMEs is expected to significantly increase the state's internally generated revenue (IGR), which currently stands at about ₦10 billion monthly. By bringing more businesses into the tax net, the state anticipates a substantial boost in revenue, which can be channeled into infrastructure and social services.
As part of the next steps, the state government will roll out a public awareness campaign and establish one-stop digital centres across the 21 local government areas to facilitate the registration and formalisation process. The agency also plans to conduct regular monitoring and evaluation to ensure the targets are met by 2030.
