Abstract:

The issue of changing cultural values and grassroots transformation is the concern of every Nigerian, and as such, grassroots communities should embrace change. Some people refuse to embrace change for so many reasons. This could be due to the complexity of values and beliefs which are prevailing in a society. This forms the basis for justifying people’s actions which are termed ideologies. Ideology is a crucial device for the sustenance of the community as it has the capacity to shape how community people perceive and interact with society about grassroots transformation. Hence a society without a clear-cut development ideology or agenda risks stagnation. It is on this assumption that this article suggests that Nigeria should embrace cultural change for transformation at the grassroots for national and global benefits. Against this background, the article examines the cultural value and the transformation of people at the grassroots with a view to understanding how changes in cultural values will affect transformation at the grassroots in Nigerian communities. Based on this, the article believes that there is a connection between changing cultural values and grassroots transformation capable of avoiding stagnation and enhancing innovation; increasing understanding, improve productivity, community services and socio-economic activities. The article recommends the provision of acculturation to keep up with emerging global demands and survive future uncertainties. We need to change what is termed “normal and acceptable” and educate people to master our environments and acquire new skills from other societies for innovation to enhance a higher standard of living and growth at the grassroots.

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