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Telecommunications giant MTN Nigeria has called on accountants and finance professionals to embrace emerging technologies and commit to continuous learning to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
The company’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Modupe Kadri, made this call during an interactive session at the 55th Annual Accountants’ Conference of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), held recently in Abuja.
Kadri said that technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, cybersecurity, and financial technology (fintech) are transforming global finance and redefining the traditional accounting profession. He urged professionals to invest in upskilling and digital competence to adapt to these changes.
“What we were taught in school is not enough anymore,” he said in a statement released by the company. “Professionals must learn cloud computing, artificial intelligence, information technology, and cybersecurity. Continuous upskilling is the only way to remain competitive in today’s evolving business environment.”
The MTN Nigeria CFO explained that technology is not just a tool but a necessity for modern accounting and financial management. He noted that while AI has greatly improved accuracy and efficiency in financial processes, it cannot replace human reasoning and ethical judgment.
“AI can help with processes and cut down review time, but professionals must interpret AI outputs and not rely blindly on them,” Kadri warned. “Technology should enhance, not replace, the human role in financial decision-making.”
Kadri reaffirmed MTN Nigeria’s commitment to supporting education, professional development, and capacity-building programmes across the country. He said the company continues to collaborate with professional bodies such as ICAN and higher institutions to improve digital literacy and enhance employability among finance professionals.
According to him, MTN’s partnerships are aligned with its broader vision of empowering Nigerians with digital tools and infrastructure that foster innovation, efficiency, and inclusion in the digital era.
“The future of every profession, accounting inclusive, is digital,” Kadri said. “MTN Nigeria will continue to invest in digital infrastructure, enterprise solutions, and capacity-building programmes to support industries transitioning into the Fourth Industrial Revolution.”
He added that the company’s digital transformation agenda goes beyond connectivity, extending into areas like enterprise software, cloud solutions, and cybersecurity services designed to help businesses remain secure and competitive.
Kadri encouraged accountants to leverage technology to deliver faster and more accurate financial reporting, enhance transparency, and strengthen governance. He noted that finance professionals who fail to adapt to digital changes risk becoming obsolete in the coming years.
Industry observers say Kadri’s remarks reflect a growing awareness among Nigerian business leaders about the urgent need to close the country’s digital skills gap. As technology continues to reshape industries, experts believe that professionals across sectors must prioritise continuous learning and innovation.
MTN Nigeria has been a consistent advocate for digital inclusion and professional development in Nigeria. The company has implemented several initiatives aimed at promoting digital education, such as MTN Foundation’s ICT and Business Skills Training, the Digital Skills for Youth Programme, and strategic collaborations with tertiary institutions to support innovation and research.
Through these programmes, MTN aims to build a digitally skilled workforce capable of driving sustainable economic growth, creating new job opportunities, and accelerating Nigeria’s transition to a knowledge-driven economy.
Kadri concluded by reminding accountants that digital transformation is not just about adopting new tools but about embracing a new mindset that values innovation, adaptability, and lifelong learning.
He said, “The future will belong to professionals who are agile, tech-savvy, and ready to learn. As finance leaders, we must lead that change.”
