The Delta State government, under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, has announced a revised dress code for civil servants, mandating stricter standards of appearance in the public service. According to a circular issued by the governor’s New Media Office, all officers are now required to appear in formal suits, while specific rules prohibit certain hairstyles, grooming choices, and accessories deemed inappropriate.
The directive bars female civil servants from wearing braided or tinted hair, long eyelashes, or artificial nails. Male officers, on the other hand, are prohibited from keeping what the circular described as “bushy” beards and from wearing “resource control or papas caps.” The government explained that these measures aim to restore decorum and discipline within the state’s public service.
The circular emphasized that senior officers are expected to lead by example in maintaining the approved dress culture. It warned that any civil servant found in violation of the code may face sanctions under the Public Service Rule No. 04314, which prohibits officers from appearing in “inappropriate or immodest” attire while on duty.
For male workers, the rules stipulate that officers on Grade Levels 13 and above must appear in complete suits, except for those in uniformed services. Officers on lower grades may wear suits, trousers with shirts and ties, or uniforms where applicable. Traditional attire will only be permitted on Fridays and special occasions, restricted to smart native wears such as senator suits or modern caftans with matching traditional caps—while “resource control” and “papas” caps remain banned.
Female civil servants are required to appear in trouser suits, skirt suits, or corporate gowns below knee length, with all trousers mandated to be part of suits. Officers on lower grade levels may also wear free gowns or skirts with blouses, provided they have proper sleeves. Traditional attire will be allowed only on Fridays and special occasions, but must be styled with decency, avoiding revealing cuts or provocative designs.
The government stressed that the policy is designed to reflect Delta State’s cultural diversity while maintaining professional standards. Heads of Departments, Permanent Secretaries, and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments have been directed to enforce compliance strictly. Any erring officer found dressed inappropriately may be sent home to change and could face further disciplinary actions if non-compliance persists.
According to the circular, the revised code is “intended to promote discipline in dressing culture among public servants” and should be given wide publicity to ensure uniform adherence across all ministries, departments, and agencies.
