The Plateau State Government has directed the temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state as a precautionary measure against suspected diphtheria cases.
The directive, which takes effect from Monday, September 7, 2026, was issued by the state government under the leadership of governor Caleb Mutfwang.
According to the government, the decision followed reports of suspected diphtheria cases in some parts of the state, particularly Jos North, Wase, Jos South and Bassa local government council.
In a statement signed by the state Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Lohya Ramnap,
the government directed schools that had already resumed academic activities to also close from Monday and remain shut until further notice.
It urged school proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents and guardians to comply fully with the directive and ensure that pupils and students remain safely at home throughout the period.
The government said the measure was aimed at protecting the health and wellbeing of pupils, students, teaching and non-teaching staff while efforts to contain the suspected outbreak continue.
It appreciated the understanding and cooperation of all stakeholders, assuring residents that appropriate measures would continue to be taken in the best interest of the people of the state.
The government said further information on the resumption of academic activities would be communicated to the public in due course.