The Delta State Government has introduced a revised dress code policy for civil servants, placing a new layer of restrictions on personal appearance in public service. A recent circular from the Office of the Head of Service, released via the Governor’s New Media Office, mandates stricter guidelines aimed at promoting professionalism and decent appearance among state employees.
According to the circular, which revises the old regulations from March 2009, senior officers are expected to set the standard by strictly adhering to the updated dress code. The state points to Public Service Rule No. 04314, which states that no civil servant should appear in their official capacity in attire considered “inappropriate or immodest.”
For male officers, especially those in higher grades (GL 13 and above), wearing full suits is now required (uniformed personnel excepted). Lower grade officers must also comply with formal wear, including trousers, shirts and ties, according to rank. Traditional attire is only permitted on Fridays or for special occasions, but with certain limitations: “resource control and papas caps” are outlawed, and bushy beards are not allowed.
For female officers, acceptable attire includes trouser suits, skirt suits, or “corporate gowns” that reach below the knee. Sleeveless dresses, spaghetti straps, or exposing cleavage are forbidden. On approved traditional days, outfits like “buba and wrapper” or gowns made from African fabrics are allowed provided proper sleeves are included. In addition, hair dyed or braided in certain styles, long eyelashes, and artificial nails are all prohibited under the new code.
Department heads have been instructed to enforce the new rules immediately, and any officer who fails to comply is to be sent home until they meet the dress code standards. Heads of Departments, Permanent Secretaries, and Accounting Officers have been urged to communicate the directive widely and apply sanctions where necessary.
