The Plateau State Government has ordered the temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state following an outbreak of diphtheria.
The government said the measure was necessary to protect pupils and students from contracting the highly infectious disease.
The closure followed reports of deaths linked to suspected diphtheria complications in Jos North Local Government Area.
The Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr Nicholas Baamlong, had disclosed on Tuesday that about 23 people had died from the disease.
He added that the government had intensified efforts to contain the spread, while nine patients were receiving treatment at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) and Plateau Specialist Hospital.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, said the closure would take effect from Monday, September 7, 2026.
She said the schools would remain closed until further notice.
According to the commissioner, Governor Caleb Manaseh Mutfwang ordered the closure following reports of suspected diphtheria cases in Jos North, Wase, Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas.
Schools that had already resumed were also directed to shut down from Monday.
The government urged proprietors, school administrators, teachers, parents and guardians to ensure that pupils and students remain at home throughout the period.
It said the measure was aimed at protecting their safety and wellbeing while efforts to control the outbreak continue.
“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,” Ramnap said.
The outbreak has raised concerns among parents and health workers over the possibility of further transmission, particularly in crowded classrooms.
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that can cause breathing difficulties, heart complications and death if not treated promptly.
