THE Plateau State Government has ordered the temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state as part of urgent preventive measures to contain the spread of a suspected diphtheria outbreak.
News Point Nigeria reports that the directive comes amid rising suspected diphtheria cases in the state, with health authorities recently reporting cases and fatalities, particularly in Jos North and other affected communities.
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According to a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, the directive takes effect from Monday, September 7, 2026, and applies to schools that have already resumed academic activities.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, in the directive, noted that suspected diphtheria cases had been found in parts of the state, particularly Jos North, Wase, Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas.
The government said the temporary closure was aimed at safeguarding the health and wellbeing of pupils, students, teaching and non-teaching staff while efforts to contain the suspected outbreak continue.
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School proprietors, administrators and teachers have been asked to comply fully with the directive, while parents and guardians are expected to ensure that their children and wards remain safely at home throughout the period.
The government appealed for the understanding and cooperation of all stakeholders, stressing that the measure was taken in the best interest of the people and to prevent further transmission of the infection.
The development comes as Plateau health authorities intensify sensitisation, vaccination and other containment measures amid suspected diphtheria cases. The state has also been engaging traditional, religious and community leaders to encourage immunisation and prevent further spread.
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Health authorities have also raised concerns about the disease spreading through contact and close association, while urging parents to ensure that children receive and complete routine immunisation.
The government said further information on the resumption of academic activities would be communicated in due course.
