Artificial Intelligence-Powered Accounting Systems and Accountant’s Job Security: Evidence from Selected Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria

This study examined the effect of Artificial Intelligence-powered accounting systems on accountants’ job security in selected Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria. The increasing adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies in accounting operations has transformed the nature of accounting practices, improved operational efficiency, and automated several routine accounting activities. Despite these benefits, concerns have continued to arise regarding the implications of AI-driven accounting systems for accountants’ employment stability and professional relevance. The study specifically investigated the effect of AI-powered accounting systems on accountants’ job security and examined the relationship between accounting automation and employment stability among accountants. The study adopted a survey research design. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to accountants and accounting-related staff in selected Deposit Money Banks, namely Access Bank Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, First Bank of Nigeria Plc, and Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO). Data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. Regression analysis was employed to test the hypotheses formulated for the study at a 0.05 level of significance with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings revealed that Artificial Intelligence-powered accounting systems have a significant effect on accountants’ job security in the selected banks. The study further showed that accounting automation significantly influences employment stability among accountants. The results indicated that while AI technologies improve efficiency, financial reporting quality, and operational performance, they also reshape traditional accounting roles and increase the need for digital and analytical skills among accounting professionals. The study concluded that Artificial Intelligence-powered accounting systems do not completely replace accountants but rather transform the accounting profession by shifting responsibilities from routine manual tasks to more strategic and analytical functions. The study recommended that banks and accounting professionals should invest in continuous technological training, digital skill development, and professional adaptation to remain relevant in the evolving digital accounting environment.