Diphtheria Outbreak: Plateau Government Shuts Down All Schools Over Infection Fears
JOS, NIGERIA—With days to the resumption of schools for the new academic year, Plateau State, in north-central Nigeria, is pushing forward the resumption date due to the outbreak of diphtheria, which has hit several states in the north.
Authorities on Saturday issued an order for all schools to remain closed to prevent a spread.
The emergency directive takes effect on Monday, September 7, 2026. Under the new order, schools that have already commenced academic sessions are required to shut down immediately and remain closed until further notice.
State officials disclosed that the drastic decision serves as a precautionary measure to curb the spread of the highly contagious bacterial infection.
Suspected cases have flared up across multiple local government areas, with Jos North, Wase, Jos South, and Bassa identified as the hardest-hit hotspots.
Government Prioritizes Student and Staff Safety
Confirming the directive, the State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, emphasized that the temporary shutdown is vital to safeguard the lives of students, teachers, and non-teaching personnel.
“The measure is aimed at protecting pupils, students, teaching and non-teaching staff and preventing further spread of the infection,” Ramnap stated.
The Commissioner strictly instructed school administrators, proprietors, and parents to adhere to the safe containment of the situation.
High Alert in Affected Local Governments
Health officials are monitoring the situation across the impacted regions. The concentration of suspected cases in major hubs like Jos North and Jos South has raised concerns due to high population densities, prompting the blanket closure across the entire state.
The Plateau State Government has appealed for calm and total cooperation from all stakeholders and members of the public. Authorities noted that updates regarding the control of the health situation and the safe resumption of academic activities will be communicated in due course.
