Delta govt bans bushy beards, artificial hair, fake nails in civil service

The Delta State Government has announced a sweeping ban on what it describes as “indecent appearance” among public servants.

The directive, issued in a circular from the Office of the Head of Service and made public after Thursday’s State Executive Council meeting in Asaba, introduces strict grooming and dress standards for all government employees.

According to the circular, male civil servants are no longer permitted to keep bushy beards or wear certain traditional caps, including the “resource control” and “papas” styles. Female staff are prohibited from wearing artificial or dyed hair, long eyelashes, or fake nails.

The new dress code also spells out specific office attire based on rank. Senior officers on grade level 13 and above must appear in suits, while those on grade levels 07 to 12 are expected to wear suits or a combination of trousers, shirts, and ties. Junior officers on levels 01 to 06 are likewise required to dress in shirts with trousers or suits. Traditional attire is acceptable only on Fridays and during special occasions.

For women, approved outfits include skirt suits, trouser suits, or corporate gowns that extend below the knee and have sleeves. Sleeveless clothing, spaghetti straps and any dress that exposes cleavage are not allowed.

Heads of departments have been directed to enforce the policy by sending non-compliant staff home to change before resuming duty, while persistent offenders face sanctions under the state’s public service rules.

The circular emphasized that the measure aims to promote discipline and proper dressing culture among public servants.