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 across the state.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang, in a directive, noted that suspected diphtheria cases were found in parts of the state, particularly Jos North, Wase, Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas.

The directive to shut all schools takes effect from Monday, September 7, 2026, and applies to schools that have already resumed academic activities.

According to a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, the temporary closure is aimed at safeguarding the health and wellbeing of pupils, students, teaching and non-teaching staff while efforts to contain the outbreak continue.

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.

It said further information on the resumption of academic activities would be communicated. (Channels)