The Plateau State Government has directed the temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools following an outbreak of diphtheria in the state.
The government said the measure was aimed at preventing students from contracting the infectious disease.
The closure was announced days after health authorities confirmed the deaths of some residents of Jos North from suspected complications linked to diphtheria.
The Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr Nicholas Baamlong, disclosed on Tuesday that about 23 people had died from the disease, adding that the state government had stepped up measures to control the spread of the highly contagious infection.
Baamlong said nine patients were receiving treatment at the Jos University Teaching Hospital, JUTH, and the Plateau Specialist Hospital.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, on Saturday, the government said the directive would take effect from Monday, September 7, 2026, and remain in place until further notice.
The commissioner said Governor Caleb Manaseh Mutfwang issued the directive following reports of suspected diphtheria cases in Jos North, Wase, Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas.
The government added that schools that had already resumed academic activities were also required to close from Monday. Proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents and guardians were advised to ensure that pupils and students remain at home throughout the period to safeguard their health and wellbeing.
“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 commissioner said.
According to media reports, the development has heightened concerns among parents and health workers, amid fears that the highly contagious bacterial infection could spread rapidly in crowded classrooms.
Health experts explain that diphtheria can cause serious breathing difficulties, heart failure and death when treatment is not provided promptly.
