As Artificial Intelligence (AI) reshapes professional services, concerns are growing over the future of entry-level jobs, with accounting firms facing pressure to adapt their workforce to automated systems without compromising young professionals’ career prospects.

Specifically, as AI grows in auditing and management consultancy, the shift raises questions about how young accountants will gain practical experience as technology takes over routine tasks traditionally assigned to junior employees, including checking transactions, preparing audit working papers, and reviewing financial documents.

The assignments have long provided a foundation for developing professional judgment and advancing in the workplace. As automation changes how such work is performed, firms must reconsider how younger professionals acquire the experience needed for career progression.

The implications extend beyond accountancy to banking, insurance and consulting, where digitalisation is changing job requirements and employers’ expectations.

The challenge was a key topic at discussions marking the 70th anniversary of HLB Z. O. Ososanya & Co. in Ibadan, as the firm’s experience highlighted the shift from manual accounting procedures to technology-driven operations.

The Managing Partner, Babatunde Kolawole, said the firm had adopted digital audits, virtual meetings, cloud-based file management and online tax platforms.

The President and Chairman of Council of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Queensley Seghosime, represented by a member of the institute’s Governing Council, Olaitan Babatunde, stressed the importance of investing in employees and preparing younger professionals for leadership.

She urged firms to embrace innovation without compromising professional ethics.

“Your task is not simply to preserve what was built; it is to build upon it. You must continue to invest in your people, uphold the highest standards of professional conduct, embrace innovation, and prepare younger professionals to lead with competence and character,” she said.

While automation can improve efficiency, it may also change staffing needs and increase pressure on workers to adapt. Employers therefore face the task of balancing productivity gains with job opportunities and career development.

Speaking on Nigeria’s economic reforms and employment prospects, the Vice-Chancellor of Lead City University, Prof. Kabiru Adeyemo, represented by Oluwatosin Adesina, said reforms should be judged by their impact on citizens’ welfare.

Speaking on ‘Reviving the Economy, Sustaining the Reforms: Pathways to Inclusive Growth, Institutional Renewal and National Prosperity’, Adeyemo warned against what he called “erosion by convenience.”

He called for greater attention to job creation, household incomes, social protection, infrastructure, manufacturing, small and medium-sized enterprises and human-capital development.

Adeyemo also urged accountants to strengthen public accountability through credible financial reporting, transparent procurement, effective auditing and ethical practice.