Anambra ICT The Anambra State ICT Agency has outlined a new strategic direction aimed at transforming the agency into Nigeria’s first AI-driven ICT institution, in line with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of building a smart and livable State.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, disclosed this during the agency’s 2026 Second Tenure Team Retreat held at the ICT Conference Hall. The retreat was themed, “The Next Four Years: Becoming Nigeria’s First AI-Native ICT Agency.”
Speaking at the event, Agbata expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue serving after his reappointment by Governor Soludo. He urged staff members to adapt to the rapidly changing digital landscape by embracing emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence.
According to him, the next phase of the agency’s operations will focus heavily on AI-driven innovation and digital transformation. He emphasized the need for employees to develop strong competence in AI tools and digital systems in order to remain relevant in today’s technology ecosystem.
Agbata stressed that the agency must become more innovative, efficient, and result-oriented in delivering digital solutions across Anambra State. He added that Artificial Intelligence has the potential to significantly improve governance and public service delivery.
A major highlight of the retreat was a keynote session delivered by the agency’s Chief Technology Officer, Chinonso Okoye, titled “The Next Four Years: Becoming Nigeria’s First AI-Native ICT Agency.” During the session, Okoye explained the importance of positioning the agency as an AI-first institution capable of competing globally.
Drawing examples from countries like Singapore, Ireland, and Estonia, he noted how governments around the world are using AI to improve efficiency, automate public services, and strengthen governance systems.
He further explained that the agency’s long-term strategy would focus on building internal AI capacity while deploying innovative digital solutions to improve public service delivery throughout the State.
The retreat also featured a review of the agency’s achievements over the past four years, including discussions on institutional growth, broadband expansion, operational systems, and opportunities for future development.
Participants later engaged in group discussions centered on Smart Government and Infrastructure, Cybersecurity and E-Government, Digital Economy, Human Capital Development, and Institutional Governance.
Also speaking at the event, the agency’s Technical Adviser, Sunday Folayan, encouraged participants to ensure that all strategic plans remain SMART — Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound.
In her vote of thanks, the Acting Director of the agency, Chinyelu Odigbo, commended the management team and facilitators for creating another opportunity to shape Anambra State’s digital transformation agenda.
The retreat concluded with a collective commitment by the agency’s staff to continue adopting innovative approaches and emerging AI technologies in advancing the state’s digital future.
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