Delta Government Announces Revised Dress Code for Public Servants

The Delta State Government has announced a revised dress code for public servants across the state, aimed at promoting decency, discipline, and professionalism in the workplace.

In a circular signed by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. M. M. Awuse, for the Head of Service, the government frowned at the rising cases of improper dressing within the public service and emphasized that henceforth, all officers must comply with the approved official dress standards.

The circular, dated 9th September 2025, reaffirms that “No officer shall appear in the office or anywhere in his official capacity attired in a manner deemed inappropriate or immodest.”

Guidelines for Male Officers

All male officers on Salary Grade Level (SGL) 13 and above must appear in complete suits, while those on SGL 07–12 are expected to wear trousers with shirts and ties, except administrative officers who must always appear in suits. Officers on SGL 01–06 should wear trousers and shirts, while uniformed staff such as drivers and plant operators must be in their designated uniforms.

Traditional attire will only be permitted on Fridays and special occasions, such as senator suits, native shirts with matching trousers, complemented with traditional caps. However, Resource Control and Papas caps, as well as bushy beards, are prohibited.

Delta State Civil Service Dress Code Announcement

Guidelines for Female Officers

Female officers on SGL 13 and above are to appear in trouser suits, skirt suits, or corporate gowns below the knee level. All trousers must be in suits. Officers on SGL 07–12 are permitted to wear free gowns or skirts below the knee with blouses that cover the arms, while officers on SGL 01–06 should also appear in gowns with sleeves or skirts and blouses.

Traditional attire will be allowed on Fridays and special occasions, including buba and wrapper, skirts with blouses, or African gowns with proper sleeves. Female officers are prohibited from exposing cleavage, wearing long artificial eyelashes, tainted hair, or long nails.

The circular directed heads of departments to enforce strict compliance, adding that any officer found improperly dressed should be sent home to comply immediately or face stricter sanctions.

“All Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments are enjoined to give the content of this circular the much-desired publicity for staff guidance and strict adherence,” the circular concluded.