The Plateau State Government has ordered the temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state over suspected cases of diphtheria.
The directive, which takes effect from Monday, September 7, 2026, was announced as part of measures to prevent the spread of the infectious disease among pupils, students, and school staff.
Diphtheria is a serious and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that mainly affects the nose and throat. It can spread from person to person through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and can cause breathing difficulties and other severe complications if not treated promptly.
The state government said the decision followed the detection of suspected diphtheria cases in Jos North, Wase, Jos South, and Bassa Local Government Areas.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, said the closure was ordered under the leadership of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.
According to her, schools that had already resumed academic activities are also required to close from Monday and remain shut until further notice.
The commissioner directed school proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents, and guardians to comply fully with the directive and ensure that pupils and students remain safely at home.
She said the precautionary measure was necessary to protect the health and well-being of students as well as teaching and non-teaching staff while the government responds to the suspected outbreak.
“The Government appreciates the understanding and full cooperation of all stakeholders as it continues to take appropriate measures in the best interest of the people of Plateau State,” Ramnap said.
The government urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with health authorities and other relevant agencies as efforts continue to prevent further transmission of the disease.
The duration of the school closure will depend on further developments and the government’s assessment of the public health situation.
