Civil servants in the state have expressed mixed feelings following the government’s announcement of a new dressing code aimed at curbing what it described as the growing culture of “improper dressing” in the public service.
According to a circular issued by the Office of the Head of Service, Delta State, the State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the review of the existing dress code earlier established in 2009, stressing that the new rules are meant to restore decency and discipline in the public workforce. The circular also underscored the responsibility of senior officers to set the tone by dressing appropriately, warning that sanctions will be applied to erring staff in line with the Public Service Rules.
For male public servants, the guidelines state that officers from Grade Level 13 and above must appear in complete suits, while those on Levels 07 to 12 are expected to wear either suits or trousers with shirts and ties. Administrative officers, however, are mandated to always appear in full suits. Junior staff are also required to maintain corporate wear, except uniformed workers such as drivers and plant operators who must be in their designated uniforms. Traditional attire is only permitted on Fridays and special occasions, but with restrictions—“Resource Control” and “Papas” caps are banned, and bushy beards have also been proscribed.
For female civil servants, the rules are equally strict. Senior officers must wear trouser suits, skirt suits, or corporate gowns that fall below the knee. Officers on lower levels can opt for gowns with sleeves, blouses with skirts, or other modest corporate outfits, but sleeveless dresses, spaghetti straps, and excessively tight or revealing clothing are not allowed. Traditional attire for women is also restricted to Fridays and special occasions, with the requirement that garments must have proper sleeves and cover cleavage. Furthermore, braided or tinted hair, long eyelashes, and artificial nails are now prohibited.
The government insists that the revised code is not merely about appearances but about instilling a culture of discipline and professionalism in the state workforce. Heads of departments have been directed to enforce compliance strictly, with instructions to send home any staff who report to duty in violation of the dress code. Such workers will be asked to return properly dressed before resuming work, or face stiffer sanctions from their superiors.
The circular concluded by urging permanent secretaries and heads of extra-ministerial departments to publicize the provisions widely and ensure full adherence across all ministries, departments, and agencies.
Meanwhile, some civil servants have described the move as unnecessary and burdensome, arguing that the government should focus on improving welfare and working conditions rather than policing appearances. Others, however, believe the policy will restore dignity and order to the state public service.
