Plateau State Closes Schools Amid Diphtheria Outbreak

In response to a diphtheria outbreak in Plateau State, the state government has ordered the temporary closure of all public and private schools, effective Monday, September 7. Dr Nicholas Ba’amlong, the state’s Commissioner for Health, confirmed that there have been 24 fatalities and 142 infections reported in the Jos North local government area.

The closure is a precautionary measure aimed at controlling the spread of diphtheria, particularly in the regions of Jos North, Wase, Jos South, and Bassa. The directive, signed by Honourable Joyce Ramnap, the State Commissioner for Information and Communication, mandates that all schools that have resumed academic activities must close immediately and remain shut until further notice.

The state government has called on school proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents, and guardians to comply fully with this directive to ensure the safety of students and staff. Further information regarding the resumption of academic activities will be provided in due course.