Title: Adoption level of AI conversational systems by governments in Nigeria towards reducing inequality to information access

Authors: Oyelami M. Olufemi; Oluwagbemi O. Olugbenga; Falana O. Thomas; Olugbemiga Solomon Popoola; Erinfolami S. Oluwaseyi; Adeyemo Adetoye; Oyebade I. Adedoyin; Olanloye D. Odunayo; Umezuruike Chinecheremm; Oluwadamilare E. Busolami; Atanda G. Oladayo; Adewuyi J. Adeyanju

Addresses: Computer Science Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 232102, Nigeria ' Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Middlesex University, The Burroughs, Hendon, NW4 4BT, London, UK ' Computer Science Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 232102, Nigeria ' Computer Science Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 232102, Nigeria ' Computer Science Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 232102, Nigeria ' Computer Science Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 232102, Nigeria ' Computer Science Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 232102, Nigeria ' Computer Science Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 232102, Nigeria ' Computer Science Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 232102, Nigeria ' Computer Science Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 232102, Nigeria ' Computer Science Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 232102, Nigeria ' Computer Science Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 232102, Nigeria

Abstract: Access to relevant information is very crucial to reducing inequality and artificial intelligence (AI) conversational systems are among the technologies that can be used in bridging the digital divide common in developing nations. Chatbots, which are a form of conversational systems have been used in the provision of various forms of services in many nations, but their usage in the provision of services rendered by the government is limited and sometimes, non-existent. This paper investigated the adoption level of this technology by the different levels of government in Nigeria. The official websites of the various governments were searched for text and speech-controlled AI conversational systems. The results revealed that AI chatting systems are not generally available. Consequently, towards attaining SDG goal 10, the adoption of AI chat systems by governments at all levels is of paramount importance to reach the underserved and the unreached for service access.

Keywords: AI conversational systems; inequality; SDG 10; chatbots; information access.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEG.2025.145740

International Journal of Electronic Governance, 2025 Vol.17 No.1, pp.4 - 24

Published online: 18 Apr 2025 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article