“Maintain Decency” — Delta Government Bans Bushy Beards, Fake Nails, And Braided Hair For Public Servants
The Delta State Government has issued a new directive banning bushy beards, artificial braided or dyed hair, long eyelashes, fake nails, and other forms of what it describes as “indecent appearance” among public servants.
The circular, released by the Office of the Head of Service on Wednesday, mandates that all public servants maintain a neat, professional, and modest appearance that reflects their rank and role in the civil service. Male officers are prohibited from growing bushy beards or wearing certain traditional caps, including the “Resource Control” or “Papas” caps. Female officers must avoid artificial braided or dyed hair, long eyelashes, and fake nails.
The directive also provides updated dress code standards: senior officers must wear full corporate suits, while junior officers should wear trousers, shirts, and ties. Traditional attire is allowed only on Fridays or during special events, provided it is clean, decent, and modest. Female employees are expected to wear trouser suits, skirt suits, or corporate gowns below the knee with sleeves; sleeveless outfits, spaghetti straps, and revealing clothing are banned.
Heads of departments have been tasked with monitoring compliance, sending home any staff who violate the rules to change, and enforcing sanctions for repeated breaches.
The government emphasized that the new dress code is aimed at promoting discipline, professionalism, and decorum in the public service. The circular also cites the Public Service Rule No. 04314, which prohibits officers from appearing in office in attire deemed inappropriate or immodest.
