Anambra State Automates Operations Using Adapted AI Model

The Anambra State ICT Agency has successfully deployed an artificial intelligence system to automate its internal processes, marking a concrete example of Nigerian sub-national government adoption beyond pilot programs or vendor partnerships.

According to Managing Director Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, the agency built this solution by adapting an existing open-source AI model rather than developing one from scratch—an approach he says is more realistic for resource-constrained environments in Nigeria. He noted that training a foundational large language model would require computational and financial resources currently unavailable to them.

The deployed system now automates virtually all agency functions, resulting in measurable productivity gains. Agbata said the state government is exploring expanding this approach across other departments, particularly targeting revenue leakages and public-sector efficiency improvements.

Strategic Shift for Anambra’s Digital Governance

This deployment aligns with Governor Charles Soludo’s vision for a second term focused on deepening digital infrastructure and governance while prioritizing AI-driven development. The ICT agency views this as part of its “2.0” phase, building upon previous recognition for smart-governance initiatives.

The open-source approach offers several advantages: lower costs, greater replicability, and reduced reliance on foreign vendors—factors particularly relevant to resource-constrained state governments seeking to leverage AI.

Addressing Common Concerns About Public Wi-Fi

Agbata also clarified the status of Anambra’s free public Wi-Fi program. While adapted for campaign use during elections, core locations like the state secretariat remain operational despite occasional weather-related downtime. The agency has no current plans to expand beyond existing sites.