Plateau Closes Schools Over Suspected Diphtheria Outbreak

Author: Gist Correspondent

The Plateau State Government has ordered the temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state following a suspected outbreak of diphtheria.

The directive, issued by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, takes effect from Monday, September 7, 2026, and affects schools that have already resumed for the new academic session.

According to the government, suspected cases of the disease have been reported in Jos North, Jos South, Bassa and Wase Local Government Areas, prompting urgent measures to prevent further spread.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, the government said the closure is intended to protect pupils, students, teachers and other school workers while health authorities work to contain the outbreak.

School owners, administrators and teachers have been directed to comply fully with the order, while parents and guardians have been urged to keep their children and wards safely at home during the temporary closure.

The state government appealed for public understanding and cooperation, describing the measure as necessary to safeguard public health and curb the spread of the suspected infection.

It added that a new date for the resumption of academic activities would be announced after the situation is brought under control.