Deploy AI to fix bottlenecks in Nigeria's public service, expert tells FG
Nigeria's public service is under pressure: rising expectations, fast population growth, and tight budgets. Artificial Intelligence (AI), if deployed with intent, can help government agencies cut delays, improve transparency, and engage citizens more effectively, according to data scientist Gbolahan Temilorun.
He warned that while many governments are modernising with AI, Nigeria still leans on manual workflows and fragmented systems. "AI enables faster responses, smarter allocation of resources, and better accountability," he said in a telephone interview.
What AI can do for public service delivery
Temilorun explained AI in simple terms: computer systems that perform tasks that usually require human intelligence-decision-making, pattern recognition, and language processing. In government, this translates into quicker service, fewer errors, and clearer audit trails.
One immediate use case is citizen reporting. Intelligent platforms let people flag damaged roads, waste issues, traffic concerns, or safety incidents via mobile phones. AI can classify each report, geo-locate it (including from images), prioritise urgent cases, and route them to the right agency-cutting handoffs and delays.
"Such systems reduce human bottlenecks and make it easier to track how complaints are handled. This helps build trust between citizens and government," he noted.
Frontline support and back-office gains
Across ministries, departments, and agencies, AI-powered chatbots can handle routine enquiries-forms, deadlines, status updates-so counters and phone lines aren't clogged. Staff can then focus on complex cases and policy work.
On the back end, AI systems can analyse large volumes of public data to detect fraud, improve tax administration, and target social welfare more accurately. The goal is simple: reduce leakages and make sure support reaches the right people.
Urban management: traffic, waste, and public safety
As cities grow, pressure on infrastructure intensifies. Temilorun highlighted AI's ability to optimise traffic signals, plan waste collection routes, and monitor environmental risks.
Predictive models can alert authorities to likely infrastructure failures or public health threats before they escalate. Early warnings save money-and prevent service breakdowns.
Transparency by design
AI can limit discretionary decision-making that often leads to inefficiency or abuse. When procurement checks, permit approvals, and service requests are driven by data and clear rules, outcomes become traceable and open to scrutiny.
What successful adoption requires
Temilorun cautioned that AI is not a replacement for human judgment. It's a tool-its value depends on planning and governance.
- Investment in digital infrastructure and clean, well-governed data
- Strong data protection laws and cybersecurity controls
- Capacity building so civil servants can work confidently with AI tools
- Clear standards for procurement, model testing, and auditability
Examples other governments are already using
- Singapore's Smart Nation: AI-powered sensors, traffic monitoring, and predictive maintenance help keep the city efficient and safe.
- UK's NHS chatbot: automated triage helps patients get advice faster, easing pressure on hospitals.
- Estonia's e-government: AI-enabled services handle routine tasks like tax returns and permits, freeing civil servants for complex work.
- US Department of Homeland Security: AI-based fraud detection saves millions by spotting anomalies sooner.
- China's smart traffic systems: AI optimises flow and reduces accidents in major cities.
The bottom line
Temilorun's message is clear: with deliberate planning and safeguards, AI can help Nigeria build a more responsive, efficient, and citizen-centred public service. The opportunity is practical and immediate-streamline the basics, make data work harder, and keep people at the centre of every decision.
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