Delta Govt Issues Strict Dress Code for Civil Servants
The Delta State Government has rolled out a new directive banning “indecent appearances” among public servants as part of efforts to promote professionalism and discipline in the state’s workforce.
The circular, issued by the Office of the Head of Service, stated that all government employees are now expected to appear in neat, modest, and corporate attire that reflects their official status.
Under the new rules, male civil servants are prohibited from wearing bushy beards and certain traditional headwear such as the “Resource Control” and “Papas” caps.
Female staff, on the other hand, are not allowed to use artificial nails, long eyelashes, or braided and dyed hair.
The government explained that the policy was designed to correct the “growing culture of improper dressing” within the civil service.
It stressed that senior officers are expected to lead by example, while erring staff risk sanctions in line with Public Service Rule No. 04314, which bars officers from appearing in inappropriate or immodest attire while on duty.
The circular further outlined acceptable dress standards across salary grades. Officers on Grade Levels 13 and above are required to wear full suits, while those on lower grades must appear in corporate trousers, shirts, and tier.
Traditional attire is permitted only on Fridays and special occasions.
For women, the acceptable options include skirt suits, corporate gowns below the knee, or properly tailored traditional attire on designated days.
Revealing outfits and provocative styles are explicitly prohibited.
Heads of departments have been directed to enforce strict compliance with the dress code by ensuring that inappropriately dressed officers are sent home to change or face disciplinary measures.
According to the circular, the revised code is not only about appearances but also about safeguarding the image of the Delta State civil service.
It emphasised that modest and professional dressing fosters discipline, decorum, and respect for the public institutions civil servants represent
