The Plateau State Government has ordered the temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state over concerns about a possible diphtheria outbreak.

The closure takes effect from Monday, September 7, 2026.

The state government said the decision followed the detection of suspected diphtheria cases in Jos North, Jos South, Wase and Bassa Local Government Areas.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, said the directive was approved under the leadership of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.

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

The government directed proprietors of private schools, administrators, teachers, parents and guardians to comply fully with the directive.

Ramnap said the temporary closure was a precautionary measure aimed at protecting pupils, students and school personnel from possible exposure to the disease.

She urged parents and guardians to ensure that their children and wards remain safely at home throughout the period of the closure.

“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 statement said.

The Plateau State Government has yet to announce a date for the reopening of schools, saying further decisions would be communicated as efforts continue to address the suspected diphtheria threat.