Schools in Plateau State will be temporarily closed from today, September 7, 0226 following a suspected outbreak of diphtheria.
This was announced by the Plateau State Government in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap.
The state government said the decision was taken as a preventive measure following reports of suspected diphtheria infections in some parts of Plateau State, particularly in Jos North, Wase, Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas.
Schools that have already resumed academic activities have also been directed to shut down from Monday and remain closed until further notice.
According to the government, the action is aimed at protecting pupils, students and members of staff while health and relevant authorities take further steps to address the situation.
“The Plateau State Government has directed the temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the State, effective Monday, September 7, 2026,” the statement said.
It added that the directive was part of the administration of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s efforts to take preventive measures against the suspected outbreak.
“The directive under the leadership of His Excellency, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, Esq, is taking preventative measures against the Diphtheria Infection outbreak of suspected cases in some parts of the State,” the government said.
Parents, guardians, school proprietors, administrators and teachers have been urged to comply fully with the directive and ensure that children remain at home throughout the closure period.
The government stressed that the temporary shutdown was necessary to safeguard the wellbeing of students, pupils, teaching and non-teaching staff while the situation is being reviewed.
“School proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents and guardians are to comply fully with the directives and ensure that students and pupils remain safely at home throughout the period,” the statement said.
The development is expected to affect thousands of pupils and students across the state, as both government-owned and privately operated schools are covered by the directive.
However, the Plateau State Government assured residents that the closure was a precautionary step and that further information regarding the resumption of academic activities would be made available to the public at the appropriate time.
The government appealed to stakeholders to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities as efforts continue to protect residents from the suspected infection.
“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,” the statement added.
No date has yet been announced for the reopening of schools, with the government saying the decision on resumption would depend on developments surrounding the suspected diphtheria cases.
The state government said further information would be communicated in due course.