The Plateau State Government has ordered the temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state following suspected cases of diphtheria.
The directive, announced on Saturday by the state Commissioner for Information, Joyce Ramnap, takes effect from Monday, September 7, 2026, and will remain in place until further notice.
The government said the decision, approved under the administration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, was a precautionary measure aimed at preventing further spread of the infectious disease.
According to the commissioner, suspected cases have been identified in parts of Jos North, Wase, Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas.
The statement said, “The directive is a preventive measure against the diphtheria infection outbreak involving suspected cases in some parts of the state, notably Jos North, Wase, Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas.”
The government explained that the order applies to schools that have already resumed for the new academic term, as well as those yet to reopen.
It directed such schools to suspend academic activities from Monday and remain closed until another announcement is made.
School proprietors, administrators, teachers and parents were urged to comply with the directive and ensure that children remain at home during the period.
The government stressed that the measure was intended to protect pupils, students and members of both teaching and non-teaching staff while health authorities respond to the suspected outbreak.
It said, “School proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents and guardians are to comply fully with the directive and ensure that students and pupils remain safely at home throughout the period.”
The state government said health authorities had commenced surveillance and other response measures in the affected communities.
These include contact tracing, vaccination efforts and decontamination activities aimed at containing possible transmission.
Diphtheria is a contagious bacterial infection that can spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Crowded environments, including schools, can facilitate transmission.
The government appealed for the cooperation of residents and other stakeholders as efforts continue to contain the suspected outbreak.
It said, “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.”
Meanwhile, health officials have advised parents to ensure their children are up to date with routine vaccinations and to maintain good hygiene.
They also urged residents to seek medical attention promptly if children develop symptoms including fever, sore throat or difficulty breathing.
The state government said further information on when schools would reopen would be communicated to the public in due course.
