Artificial Intelligence is advancing at a pace that could fundamentally reshape the global workforce far sooner than many expect.
Mustafa Suleyman, CEO of Microsoft AI, warns that most white-collar professional tasks could be fully automated within the next 12 to 18 months.
“White-collar work, whether you’re a lawyer, accountant, project manager, marketer, or analyst, most of those tasks will be fully automated by AI within the next year or year and a half.” — Mustafa Suleyman, CEO Microsoft AI
AI Automation is Already Here
This is not theoretical. In software engineering, AI-assisted coding tools are producing the majority of new code, transforming the way professionals work.
Industry data shows that AI adoption has moved rapidly from experimentation to deep operational integration, even in fields once considered immune to automation.
However, this shift comes with new challenges. Reports of “AI fatigue” are rising as knowledge workers are expected to produce more with AI tools, often without adjustments in workload or compensation.
Microsoft at the Center of AI Transformation
Microsoft is leading the charge through Microsoft Copilot and strategic investments in OpenAI and Anthropic. These tools are embedding AI into everyday professional workflows across industries.
Other leaders in AI echo Suleyman’s warning. Entire job functions and in some cases whole workforce segments may soon be replaced by AI.
The key question for professionals worldwide is no longer whether AI will change work but whether they are prepared for it.
Opportunity Amid Disruption
According to GN (Dr.) Kayode Elusoji, Executive Director of the Great Nigerian Assembly (GNA), this moment represents not only disruption but opportunity.
History shows that technological shifts eliminate some roles while creating new professions and leadership pathways. The difference between displacement and advancement is preparation.
GNA and CPI Education Preparing Professionals for the AI Era
In collaboration with CPI Education, GNA is taking deliberate steps to ensure individuals are not left behind but are instead positioned to lead in the new AI-driven economy.
Key initiatives include
Advanced professional training programs in AI Engineering, Robotics, AI Governance, and structured AI skills acquisition
Specialized certification tracks including
- Certified AI Accounting Technician
- Certified AI Accounting Associate
- Certified AI Accounting Professional
These programs equip professionals with practical, deployable skills to integrate AI into their work rather than be displaced by it.
Future Proof Skills for the AI Driven Economy
GNA’s 2026 empowerment agenda focuses on equipping professionals, particularly young people, with skills in
- Artificial Intelligence
- Robotics
- Data Science
- Cybersecurity
- Other emerging technologies
“AI will close some doors but it will open far more for those who prepare, upskill, and act decisively.”
