Plateau shuts schools indefinitely over suspected Diphtheria cases

The directive, issued under Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, takes effect from Monday, September 7, 2026, and will remain in force “until further notice.”

Commissioner for Information Joyce Ramnap announced the decision in a statement on Saturday, citing the need to prevent further spread of the infection.

“The directive… is taking preventative measures against the Diphtheria Infection outbreak of suspected cases in some parts of the State, notably Jos North, Wase, Jos South & Bassa Local Government Areas,” the statement said.

The government directed schools that had already resumed for the new academic term to suspend activities alongside those yet to reopen.

“Accordingly, schools that have already resumed academic activities are also directed to close from Monday, September 7, 2026, and remain closed until further notice,” it added.

It urged school proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents and guardians to comply with the directive and keep pupils and students at home during the closure.

“Furthermore, school proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents and guardians are to comply fully with the directive and ensure that students and pupils remain safely at home throughout the period as part of measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of pupils, students, teaching and non-teaching staff during the period under review,” the statement stressed.

The closure follows reports of suspected diphtheria cases in Jos North, Wase, Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas, with health authorities stepping up surveillance and response activities in the affected communities.

Diphtheria can spread through respiratory droplets and direct contact, making crowded environments such as schools particularly vulnerable to transmission.

As part of the response, health workers are conducting contact tracing, vaccination mop-up and decontamination exercises in communities where suspected cases have been identified.

The state government said the measure was aimed at reducing children’s exposure while health authorities work to contain the suspected outbreak.

“The Government appreciates the understanding and full cooperation of all stakeholders as it continues to take appropriate measures in the best interest of the people of Plateau State,” the statement said.

Ramnap said the government would provide further updates on the situation and announce when schools can resume.

“Further information on the resumption of academic activities will be communicated to the public in due course,” it concluded.

Health officials also advised parents to ensure their children receive routine immunisations, maintain proper hand hygiene and seek medical attention promptly when symptoms such as fever, sore throat or difficulty breathing occur.