Anambra State is positioning itself at the forefront of a technological revolution in Nigerian public administration. The state government is actively deploying Artificial Intelligence (AI) and expanding broadband infrastructure to fundamentally change how it interacts with citizens and manages services.
Data and AI Drive Smarter Governance
During a media briefing in Lagos over the weekend, the Managing Director of the Anambra State Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, outlined the administration's ambitious vision. He stated that Governor Chukwuma Soludo's government is deliberately integrating technology into all aspects of governance.
"The vision is clear: to build a smarter, faster, and more efficient government powered by data, innovation, and digital tools centered on the citizen," Agbata explained. He revealed that the state now employs extensive data analytics to enhance planning, service delivery, and critical decision-making processes.
AI-driven systems are helping officials better understand public needs, plan effective interventions, and monitor the impact of government programs. Agbata noted that while data was previously used for political engagement, the current goal is to institutionalise a data culture across all government departments, not just during election cycles.
"We now have access to rich datasets, from demographic information to service requests. We are leveraging this data to build a more responsive and effective government," he added.
Conversational AI and Broadband as Key Pillars
A significant part of this transformation involves developing conversational AI systems. These platforms will enable residents, regardless of literacy level, to interact with government services using local indigenous languages.
"Soon, people should be able to speak to an AI in their native language and have their requests processed. This is the future of governance, and Anambra intends to lead the way," Agbata emphasized.
He also highlighted the administration's broadband expansion as a major achievement. Agbata credited the governor's progressive Right-of-Way policy and proactive engagement with internet service providers for accelerating fibre optic cable deployment across the state, including semi-urban communities.
"When ISPs start coming to Anambra on their own initiative, it signals that they see sound policies and a viable market," Agbata stated. This push for connectivity is central to the state's overall digital agenda.
Building Local Infrastructure for the Future
Looking ahead, the state is pursuing the establishment of a local Internet Exchange Point (IXP). This critical infrastructure aims to localise internet traffic, which would reduce costs for users and significantly improve connection speeds for businesses and residents.
This comprehensive digital strategy, combining AI, data analytics, and physical broadband infrastructure, marks one of Nigeria's most determined efforts to modernise state governance and service delivery.
