Impact of Talent Gap and Changing Skillset on Accounting Professionals in Nigeria: A Conceptual Review

Abstract

This paper examines the impact of talent gap and changing skillset on accounting professionals in Nigeria. Drawing on Neo-Correspondence Theory, the study synthesizes empirical and theoretical literature to identify and categorize critical skills including technical, digital, soft, and emotional intelligence required for modern accountants. The study employs a conceptual research design suitable for theory development, conceptual clarification, and framework construction. This designed is aimed at synthesizing and critically analyzing existing literature rather than relying on empirical data collection. In addition, the study conducted a thematic analysis of the literature in order to identify the 
patterns, contradictions, and knowledge gaps across various contexts and disciplines. Findings reveal the necessary skills required by accountants in Nigeria to include technical (IFRS, audit), digital (ERP, AI), soft (communication, teamwork), and Emotional Intelligence (empathy, self-regulation). The study also found the existence of skills gap 
arising from none or poor application of digital/technical knowledge in the practice of Nigerian accounting profession. The study found s further, the growing need for advisory and technical roles in the accounting profession rather than mere accounting and reporting. 
In line with the findings, the stud recommends that a comprehensive modernization of the curriculum should be done to incorporate modules on data analytics, Enterprise Resource Planning systems, artificial intelligence, and cyber security into accounting programs; and 
the existing University-Industry Collaboration should be enhanced through the establishment of industry advisory boards to co-develop curriculum content. 

Keywords: accounting profession, digital competencies, performance gap, skillset, talent gap