By Michael Ovat
The Anambra State Government has launched SmartGov, a digital self-service platform designed to make access to government information and public services faster, easier and more convenient for residents.
The platform allows citizens to ask questions about government services in a conversational format and receive instant, accurate responses from an intelligent virtual assistant known as NORA, eliminating the need for multiple visits to government offices or lengthy searches for information.
With the new platform, residents can obtain guidance on issues such as tax payments, applications for Certificates of Occupancy, business registration, healthcare services and other government-related enquiries from any location and at any time.
According to the state government, SmartGov is built on the principle of citizen self-service, enabling users to independently access verified government information and navigate public services through a simple digital interface.
Once a user submits a question, NORA processes the request using verified government information sources before providing accurate responses and, where available, direct links to the relevant government services.
The government said the initiative is aimed at reducing barriers between citizens and public institutions while improving efficiency, responsiveness and ease of access to essential services.
Speaking on the initiative, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Mr. Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, popularly known as CFA, described SmartGov as part of the state’s broader e-governance agenda.
He said the platform was designed to make government services more accessible, efficient and responsive to the needs of the people.
According to him, digital transformation goes beyond the adoption of technology and focuses on improving the way government delivers services, engages citizens and enhances their overall experience.
Agbata urged residents to explore the platform and provide feedback to enable continuous improvement of its services.
He noted that users can submit their observations through the platform’s dedicated feedback portal, adding that public input would help ensure SmartGov continues to meet the needs of Ndi Anambra.
The 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 the SmartGov platform at smart.anambrastate.gov.ng, where government information and services are now available through a simple question-and-answer interface, Agbata concluded.
