Cross River State Government Bans Mini-Skirts, Indecent Dressing for Female Civil Servants

The Cross River State Government has issued a stern directive banning mini-skirts and other forms of indecent dressing among female civil servants, as part of a broader effort to enforce professionalism, discipline, and decorum within the state workforce. The policy, which forms part of Circular No. 3/2025, was signed by the Head of Service, Bassey Okon, and underscores the government’s resolve to ensure compliance with formal dress standards across all public offices.

According to the circular, Akahi News gathered that several female staff members have been reported to work in outfits deemed inappropriate for official engagements, including mini-skirts, gowns above knee level, transparent clothing, tight-fitting garments, off-shoulder blouses, sleeveless tops, jeans, T-shirts, shorts, three-quarter trousers, and slippers.

“Public officers must maintain decorum and present themselves in a manner that reflects the dignity of the Cross River State Civil Service,” Head of Service Bassey Okon stated in the directive.

The circular emphasised that formal and decent attire must be worn from Monday to Friday and that Permanent Secretaries, Directors, and Heads of Departments are responsible for enforcing compliance. Defaulters will face sanctions in line with existing Public Service Rules.

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Crackdown on Misuse of Titles

Beyond regulating dress, the government raised concerns about the increasing trend of civil servants using questionable academic and traditional titles. The circular highlighted that unearned doctoral degrees (PhDs) and community, faith-based, or chieftaincy titles must not be included in official communications.

Akahi News learnt that only officers who have earned accredited and verifiable doctoral degrees may officially use the title “Dr” or “PhD.” The circular warns that unauthorised usage will attract disciplinary measures.

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Enforcement and Implications

Permanent Secretaries, Directors, and Heads of Departments have been instructed to ensure strict adherence to the new dress code and title usage policy. Akahi News gathered that these measures are intended to instil professionalism and safeguard the image of the Cross River State Civil Service.

The government has further urged civil servants to uphold ethical standards, maintain professional integrity, and foster public confidence in the operations of the state bureaucracy.

This move follows growing public discussions about workplace ethics and professionalism, with observers noting that such steps could strengthen discipline and accountability within government offices. Analysts also suggest that consistent enforcement could serve as a model for other Nigerian states seeking to standardise civil service conduct.

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Public Reaction and Outlook

Civil servants and the general public have expressed mixed reactions. While some appreciate the emphasis on professionalism and the need to preserve the dignity of public service, others argue that dress codes should balance personal expression with official decorum.

Akahi News reports that the Cross River State Government remains firm on the implementation, signalling that non-compliance will have tangible consequences, including formal reprimands and administrative sanctions.

The directive also serves as a reminder of the government’s broader commitment to ethical governance, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance accountability, discipline, and professional conduct in public service.

With the enforcement date imminent, the state’s civil service is expected to undergo significant behavioural and cultural adjustments, as officials align with the new standards. Akahi News will continue to monitor compliance and report on the impact of these reforms on public service efficiency and professional conduct.

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By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org

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