Plateau State has ordered the temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state following suspected cases of diphtheria in four local government areas.
The directive 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, saying the measure is aimed at preventing further transmission of the infection.
Suspected cases have been reported in Jos North, Wase, Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas.
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The government said the order covers schools that have already resumed academic activities for the new term, directing them to close from Monday.
School proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents and guardians were urged to comply with the directive and keep pupils and students at home during the period.
The closure comes as health authorities intensify surveillance and response efforts in communities where suspected cases have been identified.
The state government said measures including contact tracing, vaccination mop-up and decontamination were being undertaken to contain the suspected outbreak.
Diphtheria is a contagious bacterial infection that can spread through respiratory droplets and close contact, making schools and other crowded environments potential settings for transmission.
The government said it would provide further information on when schools would resume, while urging stakeholders to cooperate with the preventive measures.
Health officials have also advised parents to ensure that children receive their routine vaccinations and to seek medical attention promptly if symptoms associated with diphtheria occur.
