Issues new dress code
The Delta State Government has implemented a revised dress code for civil servants, emphasizing that improper dressing in the public service will no longer be tolerated.
A circular, signed by the Office of the Head of Service and released by the Governor’s New Media Office on Thursday, stated that the initiative aims to “uphold decency in the appearance of Public Servants across the State.” The new guidelines come in response to the growing issue of improper dressing, which has become commonplace within the State Public Service. The circular refers to the previous dress code established on March 12, 2009, and stresses the necessity of revising these standards to promote a more professional appearance.
Senior officers are expected to lead by example in enforcing the new dress code, with the government highlighting their vital role in correcting inappropriate dressing habits. The circular cites Public Service Rule No. 04314, stating that “No Officer shall appear in the office or anywhere in his official capacity attired in a manner deemed inappropriate or immodest.” It also indicates that sanctions may be applied to address noncompliance.
For Male Officers:
- Officers on GLs 13 and above must wear complete suits, with exceptions for uniformed personnel.
- Officers on SGLs 07-12 can dress in suits or a pair of trousers, shirt, and tie (Administrative Officers must wear suits).
- Officers on SGLs 01-06 should follow the same guidelines as above, with uniformed staff required to wear their uniforms or, in their absence, trousers and shirts.
- Traditional attire is permitted only on Fridays and special occasions, including Smart Senator Suits, modern caftans, or native shirts with matching trousers, complemented by appropriate traditional caps.
- Resource control and papas caps are prohibited, and bushy beards are not allowed.
For Female Officers:
- Officers on SGLs 13 and above must wear trouser suits, skirt suits, or corporate gowns that fall below the knee (hats are not allowed), and trousers must match the suits.
- Officers on SGLs 07-12 may wear the aforementioned attire or free gowns below the knee with sleeves, or skirts below the knee with matching blouses (sleeveless or spaghetti straps are not permitted).
- Officers on SGLs 01-06 should dress in free gowns with sleeves or skirts and blouses as described above.
- Traditional attire for female officers is allowed only on Fridays and special occasions, including traditional costumes like buba and wrapper, skirts with blouses, or gowns made from African fabrics, provided they have proper sleeves.
- The circular warns that all female attire must maintain decorum, avoiding provocative exposure of cleavage. Braided or dyed hair, long eyelashes, and artificial nails are prohibited.
To ensure compliance, department heads have been instructed to send home any officers who do not adhere to these guidelines.
“This circular is intended to promote discipline in dressing culture among Public Servants. To enforce strict adherence to the revised dress code, all Heads of Departments must ensure that any erring officer returns home to dress appropriately before resuming duty, or they risk facing more stringent sanctions from the Accounting Officer,” the circular states.
Permanent Secretaries and department heads are urged to publicize this directive and ensure compliance among staff. The dress code review reflects a broader initiative to enhance professionalism and discipline within the State public service, aligning with public expectations and government efforts to improve overall image and work culture.
This new dress code is consistent with existing legislation in Delta State, including laws against “indecent exposure” under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law, reinforcing the commitment to maintaining appropriate standards of dress among public servants.
Leave a Reply