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, as a precautionary measure against suspected cases of diphtheria infection.
The directive was issued under the administration of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang following reports of suspected diphtheria cases in parts of the state, particularly Jos North, Wase, Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas.
According to a statement signed by the State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, mni, schools that have already resumed academic activities are also required to shut down from Monday and remain closed until further notice.
The government directed school proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents and guardians to fully comply with the order and ensure that pupils and students remain safely at home throughout the period.
The temporary closure, the government said, is aimed at protecting the health and wellbeing of pupils, students, teaching staff and non-teaching personnel while authorities take appropriate measures to prevent further spread of the infection.
The Plateau State Government appealed to all stakeholders for understanding and cooperation, stressing that the decision was taken in the best interest of residents and to safeguard public health.
The government added that further information on the resumption of academic activities will be communicated to the public in due course.
The directive was dated September 5, 2026.
