The Delta government has issued a directive for the review of the dress code for civil servants in a bid to inculcate discipline and professionalism in the State Public Service.
The directive is contained in a circular issued by the office of the State Head of Service, Dr Mininim
Oseji, made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Asaba.
According to the circular, the he move followed incessant complaints by the general public and embarrassment on the shabby dressing of some of the states civil servants.
The circular signed by the Permanent Secretary of the office of the HoS, Mr Maxwell Awuse, stated that the initiative aimed to uphold decency, restore decorum, and project a culture of responsibility in service delivery.
”The circular to the effects was made public to all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
“The Head of Service has reviewed the dress code for public servants to strengthen discipline and professionalism in the State Public Service.
”The move “reflects government’s commitment to upholding decency, restoring decorum, and projecting a culture of responsibility in service delivery, ” the circular stated.
According to the circular, senior public servants are expected to lead by example in projecting a culture of proper dressing, with sanctions to be applied under Public Service Rule No. 04314 against any officer who appears in inappropriate or immodest attire.
For male officers, the circular stipulated that all staff on Grade Level 13 and above must appear in complete suits, except for uniformed officers.
It also stated those on Grade Levels 07 to 12 were required to dress in suits or trousers with shirts and ties, while Administrative Officers must always be in suits.
Staff on Grade Levels 01 to 06 are also expected to comply, except drivers and plant operators who should appear in uniforms or trousers and shirts.
Female staff on Grade Levels 01 to 06 are also expected to follow similar standards.
Traditional outfits such as buba and wrapper, African print gowns, and other cultural attire are allowed only on Fridays and special occasions, provided they include proper sleeves.
The circular also stated that Traditional attire, including senator suits, caftans, or native shirts with trousers and caps, will only be allowed on Fridays and special occasions.
However, resource control and papas caps were banned, while bushy beards were also prohibited.
Female officers on Grade Level 13 and above are required to appear in trouser suits, skirt suits, or corporate gowns below the knee, with trousers permitted only as part of suits.
Those on Grade Levels 07 to 12 may also wear gowns below the knee with sleeves, or skirts with blouses.
The directive also prohibits sleeveless or spaghetti-strap dresses, provocative exposure of cleavages, braided or tinted hair, long eyelashes, and artificial nails among female officers.
Heads of Departments have been directed to enforce strict adherence to the revised dress code.
The circular warned that any officer found in violation might be sent home to change or face stiffer sanctions.
Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments have been mandated to ensure wide publicity and compliance across ministries and agencies.
NAN reports that the initiative is expected to enhance the image of the state’s public service and promote a more professional work environment. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
MOA
