THE Delta State Government has introduced a revised dress code for public servants, citing the need to promote discipline, professionalism, and decorum within the state’s civil service.
In a statement released yesterday on its official X handle, the government said the new guidelines are intended to curb what it described as an increasing trend of improper dressing among workers.
It added that senior officers are expected to lead by example, warning that any violation will attract sanctions under Public Service Rule No. 04314.
For male officers, the circular specifies that staff on Grade Level 13 and above must appear in full suits, except for those in uniformed services. Officers on Grade Levels 07 to 12 are required to wear suits or trousers with shirts and ties, while Administrative Officers must always be in suits.
Those on Grade Levels 01 to 06 are also required to comply, except drivers and plant operators, who should appear in uniforms or trousers and shirts.
Traditional attire such as senator suits, caftans, and native shirts with trousers and caps will only be allowed on Fridays and special occasions.
Resource control and papas caps, along with bushy beards, are banned.
For female officers, those on Grade Level 13 and above must wear trouser suits, skirt suits, or corporate gowns that fall below the knee, with trousers permitted only as part of a suit.
Officers on Grade Levels 07 to 12 may wear similar corporate attire, including skirts with blouses or gowns with sleeves.
Traditional wear such as buba and wrapper or African print gowns are permitted only on Fridays and special occasions, provided they have proper sleeves.
The directive also prohibits sleeveless and spaghetti-strap dresses, exposure of cleavages, braided or tinted hair, long eyelashes, and artificial nails among female staff.
Heads of Departments have been instructed to enforce strict compliance, with erring officers liable to be sent home to change or face disciplinary action.
Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments are also mandated to ensure wide circulation of the directive across all ministries and agencies.
According to the government, the dress code review is part of efforts to preserve the image and integrity of the Delta State Public Service.