BudgIT Launches AI Chatbot “Bimi” to Boost Government Transparency

BudgIT, a leading civic-tech organization, has unveiled “Bimi”, an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot designed to provide Nigerians with real-time access to fiscal and public finance data.

The chatbot was officially launched on Thursday at the Lagos edition of Open Data Day 2025, an event hosted by the BudgIT Foundation.

Named after the Yoruba word for “ask me,” Bimi is built to bridge the gap between government transparency and public understanding by offering instant responses on budgetary matters, economic trends, and governance updates.

Speaking at the launch, Nancy Odimegwu, BudgIT’s Communications Associate, described the chatbot as a game-changer in Nigeria’s pursuit of government accountability.

“Bimi empowers every Nigerian to access essential information needed for informed decision-making easily,” she said. “It responds quickly to questions about government policies, public services, and governance updates. It also provides timely access to economic data and offers educational modules on public financial management, civic technology, and governance.”

Oluseun Onigbinde, BudgIT’s Global Director, emphasized that Bimi is more than just a technological innovation—it is a platform for fostering accountability.

“By leveraging artificial intelligence, BudgIT has created a tool that simplifies the complexities of government operations,” Onigbinde stated. “Bimi provides a user-friendly gateway to otherwise opaque government data, making it easier for Nigerians to demand transparency and hold leaders accountable.

“This is not just about technology; it’s about equipping citizens with the knowledge and tools they need to ensure good governance.”

At the launch event, participants test-ran Bimi, requesting information about government expenditure and public finance. The chatbot responded swiftly, demonstrating its ability to provide accurate insights into Nigeria’s fiscal policies.

With this innovation, BudgIT aims to revolutionize public access to government data, making it easier for citizens to monitor how public funds are allocated and spent.