The Plateau State Government has ordered the temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state, beginning Monday, September 7, 2026, following reports of suspected diphtheria cases.
The decision affects schools across the state, including institutions that have already resumed academic activities.
The government said suspected cases have been reported in Jos North, Wase, Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas, raising concerns about the possible spread of the disease among pupils, students, teachers and other school staff.
The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Lohya Ramnap, announced the directive on Saturday, explaining that the closure is a precautionary measure aimed at limiting possible transmission.
School owners, administrators and teachers have been directed to comply with the order, while parents and guardians have been advised to keep their children at home.
The government said the schools will remain closed until further notice, with the resumption of academic activities to be announced after health authorities determine that it is safe to reopen.
The development comes as health authorities intensify efforts to monitor the suspected diphtheria cases and prevent a wider outbreak across the state.