The Plateau State Government has ordered the immediate temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state following concerns over suspected cases of diphtheria.
The directive, issued under the administration of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, takes effect from Monday, September 7, 2026, and will remain in force until further notice.
The state government announced the decision on Saturday through a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Joyce Ramnap.
According to the government, the precautionary measure became necessary following suspected diphtheria cases reported in parts of the state, particularly Jos North, Wase, Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas.
The directive affects all schools, including institutions that have already resumed academic activities for the new term.
“Schools that have already resumed academic activities are also directed to close from Monday, September 7, 2026, and remain closed until further notice,” the statement said.
The government has consequently directed school proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents and guardians to ensure that pupils and students remain safely at home throughout the period.
Why Schools Are Being Shut
The development comes amid growing concerns over a suspected outbreak of diphtheria in some communities across Plateau State.
Health authorities have reportedly activated surveillance and response teams in affected areas as they work to identify possible cases, trace contacts and prevent further transmission.
Diphtheria is a serious infectious disease that can spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Schools, where children gather in large numbers, can provide an environment for rapid transmission.
As part of its response, the state government said health workers would intensify contact tracing, vaccination mop-up exercises and decontamination activities in affected communities.
Parents have also been advised to ensure that their children are up to date with routine vaccinations, maintain good hand hygiene and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms such as fever, sore throat or difficulty breathing occur.
The government appealed for the cooperation of parents, teachers and school owners, stressing that the decision was taken to protect pupils, students and school staff while health authorities respond to the suspected outbreak.
Meanwhile, the government said the public would be informed when it is safe for academic activities to resume.
“Further information on the resumption of academic activities will be communicated to the public in due course,” the statement concluded.
Discover more from NATIONAL BEAM
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
