The World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Future of Jobs Report 2025 reveals significant shifts in the global labor market, with certain jobs facing rapid decline due to technological advancements and evolving business practices. Key factors driving this transformation include automation, geoeconomic changes, economic uncertainty, and demographic shifts, all of which are reshaping the workforce by 2030.
The report identifies the Top 10 Fastest Declining Jobs globally, showing the roles most affected by digital transformation, automation, and changes in consumer behaviors. Some of the most affected positions include:
- Postal Service Clerks
- Bank Tellers and Related Clerks
- Data Entry Clerks
- Cashiers and Ticket Clerks
- Administrative Assistants and Executive Secretaries
- Printing and Related Trades Workers
- Accounting, Bookkeeping, and Payroll Clerks
- Material-Recording and Stock-Keeping Clerks
- Transportation Attendants and Conductors
- Door-to-Door Sales Workers, News, and Street Vendors
These roles are being phased out as businesses adopt digital technologies, automation, and self-service solutions, reducing the reliance on manual labor.
In contrast, the report also highlights the Top 10 Fastest Growing Jobs, which are predominantly in the tech and digital sectors. These roles include:
- Big Data Specialists
- FinTech Engineers
- AI and Machine Learning Specialists
- Software and Applications Developers
- Security Management Specialists
- Data Warehousing Specialists
- Autonomous and Electric Vehicle Specialists
- UI and UX Designers
- Light Truck or Delivery Services Drivers
- Internet of Things Specialists
In Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, businesses face unique challenges, including skills gaps and limited investment, which hinder job creation and retention. The report notes that 87% of Nigerian employers anticipate a growing demand for network and cybersecurity skills by 2030, surpassing the global average of 70%.
To address these challenges, Nigerian businesses are focusing on upskilling and reskilling initiatives, with 73% of firms advocating for increased public-sector funding for these programs. Improving infrastructure, including transport services, is also crucial to ensuring talent availability.