Smart urban governance for sustainable cities: integrating artificial intelligence, digitalization, and renewable energy technologies in Nigeria's public service transformation

Abstract

Introduction: Nigeria's rapidly urbanizing landscape faces persistent governance, infrastructure, and energy challenges that undermine sustainable city development. Bureaucratic inefficiencies, corruption, and unreliable energy systems continue to constrain urban service delivery and citizen welfare. This study investigates how Artificial Intelligence (AI), digitalization, and Renewable Energy Technologies (RETs) can transform urban public service systems to promote efficiency, transparency, and inclusive governance. Methods: Anchored in a mixed-methods design, the study gathered data from federal, state, and municipal institutions, yielding 642 valid responses, alongside 35 key informant interviews and six focus groups across major Nigerian cities. Quantitative analyses measured adoption levels and relationships among technology integration variables, while qualitative insights illuminated socio-technical barriers and enablers influencing innovation readiness. Results: Findings reveal moderate adoption of AI and RETs (mean scores of 3.02 and 3.17, respectively), but low adoption of blockchain technologies (mean score of 2.64). Barriers such as weak digital literacy, inadequate energy infrastructure, limited regulatory frameworks, and inconsistent political commitment significantly hinder the advancement of smart governance. Discussion: The study introduces the Integrated Smart Governance Transformation (ISGT) Model, which integrates governance reform, technology deployment, and capacity building to address these systemic constraints. The model provides a strategic pathway for linking digitalization and renewable energy within a participatory governance structure that enhances accountability, service efficiency, and citizen engagement at the urban level. The ISGT model evolves into the Framework for Integrating Renewable Energy Solutions and Technological Innovations for the Digital Transformation of Public Service (FIREs-TIDTPS), which operationalizes technology adoption and governance reform through regulatory support, inclusive participation, and phased implementation. By embedding renewable energy systems within digital governance infrastructures, the framework advances energy-secure, transparent, and citizen-centered urban governance. The study concludes that integrating AI-driven digital systems and renewable energy adoption can enable African cities, particularly in Nigeria, to overcome structural and governance deficits while accelerating progress toward SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). This interdisciplinary contribution offers both theoretical insights and practical strategies for achieving smart, sustainable, and inclusive cities in the Global South.