Plateau Shuts Down Schools As State Moves Fast To Outrun A Diphtheria Outbreak

By Asiwaju Adekunle Saheed

The Plateau State Government has ordered the temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state, effective Monday, September 7, 2026, as a preventive measure against a diphtheria outbreak.

The directive, issued under the leadership of Governor Caleb Manaseh Mutfwang, targets suspected cases reported in parts of Jos North, Wase, Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas.

According to the government, schools that have already resumed academic activities are also to close from Monday, September 7, and remain shut until further notice.

School proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents and guardians have been directed to comply fully with the order and ensure that students and pupils remain safely at home throughout the closure period.

The government said the measure was designed to safeguard the wellbeing of pupils, students, teaching and non teaching staff while health authorities work to contain the outbreak.

Officials appreciated the understanding and cooperation of stakeholders, stressing that the state would continue taking appropriate steps in the best interest of residents.

Further information on the resumption of academic activities is expected to be communicated to the public in due course.