The Delta State Government has rolled out a controversial new dress code for civil servants, banning bushy beards, fake hair, long eyelashes, and artificial nails in a sweeping move to enforce what it calls “professionalism and modesty” in the workplace.
The directive, issued by the Office of the Head of Service, compels department leaders to strictly monitor staff appearance and send home any worker who violates the code. Repeat offenders, the government warned, may face sanctions.
According to the circular, the old dress code introduced in 2009 was no longer effective in curbing what authorities described as a growing wave of indecent dressing among public workers. The new rules set out detailed requirements for male and female employees, categorizing acceptable attire by rank and job grade level.
For men, the state insists on suits for senior officials, with mid-level and lower-level staff permitted to wear smart shirts and trousers paired with ties. Bushy beards remain outlawed, while traditional attire will only be tolerated on Fridays and approved occasions.
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For women, the policy demands suits, corporate gowns, or modest dresses that fall below the knee. Revealing outfits are strictly forbidden, while the use of artificial enhancements such as fake hair, false eyelashes, and long acrylic nails has been completely prohibited. Traditional wear is allowed only under specified conditions.
The state government emphasized that the new dress code is not just about appearance but about restoring dignity to the civil service. Senior officers have been tasked with leading by example, while permanent secretaries and department heads are under pressure to enforce the rules without compromise.
Civil servants who fall short of the standard will not be allowed to resume duties until they correct their appearance, a measure the government says will instill discipline and reinforce public confidence in its workforce.
The announcement has already sparked heated debate across the state, with some praising the policy as long overdue and others describing it as excessive and intrusive. As implementation begins, many are watching closely to see how the new rules will affect morale and productivity within the civil service.
