With ambitious investments in artificial intelligence (AI), broadband and data analytics, Anambra State is emerging as a test case for tech-enabled governance in Nigeria.
The push, championed by Governor Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, signals a shift toward smarter, faster and more citizen-focused public service delivery.
Speaking during an interactive session with media executives in Lagos, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata (CFA), the managing director, Anambra State ICT Agency, explained that the administration’s digital-first approach is reshaping how government engages citizens and delivers services.
Agbata said the Soludo administration is intentional about embedding technology into governance at scale.
“Governor Soludo’s vision is clear, a smarter, faster, more efficient government driven by data, innovation and citizen-focused digital tools,” he said.
Agbata noted that the state has adopted extensive data analytics to improve planning, service delivery and overall decision-making.
He explained that AI-driven analytics are now helping the government understand citizen needs, plan interventions and monitor impact more effectively.
He mentioned that the state’s previous use of data modelling in political engagement demonstrated the power of structured data but stressed that the real goal is institutionalising data culture across government, not just elections.
“We sit on rich datasets today; from demographic insights to service requests, and we are using them to build a more responsive government,” he said.
The ICT boss highlighted the state’s work on conversational AI systems that will allow citizens to interact with government easily, even in local languages.
“Whether literate or illiterate, people should soon be able to speak to AI in an indigenous language and have their requests processed,” he said.
“That’s where governance is going, and Anambra intends to lead.”
Highlighting Broadband Expansion as one of the biggest wins of Governor Soludo’s administration, Agbata emphasised that broadband penetration remains central to achieving the state’s digital agenda.
He credited Governor Soludo’s progressive Right-of-Way policy and proactive industry engagement for accelerating fibre deployment across communities.
“When ISPs begin travelling to Anambra on their own, it shows they see good policy and a viable market,” he said.
Today, more households in semi-urban communities are enjoying reliable fibre connections something CFA said was almost impossible in previous years..
CFA also disclosed that Anambra continues to pursue the establishment of an Internet Exchange Point to localise traffic and reduce cost while improving speed.
“Localising traffic means your data won’t travel to Lagos or Amsterdam before returning,” he explained. He noted that although technical requirements have caused delays, significant progress is expected in 2026.
Agbata added that national assessments have recognised Anambra’s advancement in digitisation and reforms. “According to BudgIT and other national bodies, Anambra ranks number one in the Southeast in ease of doing business and transparency,” he said.
He attributed the growth to healthy inter-state competition and measurable reforms championed by Governor Soludo.
Agbata praised the young professionals powering the state’s digital work, particularly in data analytics and infrastructure mapping.
He also highlighted the vital role of industry partnerships:
“Relationships matter. If we fully deploy just 20% of the relationships we have within and outside the country, Anambra would be on another level.”
He cited instances where collaboration with telecom executives led to quick fixes and infrastructure deployment in the state.
Agbata thanked the Lagos media community for their continuous support in making the Anambra’s digital revolution seen and appreciated by all.
“We don’t take your support for granted. You have helped amplify Anambra’s digital transformation story,” he said.
As Anambra deepens investments in digital infrastructure, AI systems and data-driven governance, Agbata said the state is positioning itself as the emerging technology and innovation hub of the Southeast.
“There is a generation coming that is digital-first. Our responsibility is to build systems ready for them,” he said.
