Plateau State shuts schools following diphtheria outbreak

diphtheria outbreak Plateau State school closures Nigeria health crisis infectious disease

The Plateau State Government has ordered the indefinite closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools, effective Monday, September 7, 2026. This emergency measure is a response to a suspected diphtheria outbreak reported in the Jos North, Wase, Jos South, and Bassa Local Government Areas.

Health Commissioner Dr. Nicholas Baamlong reported that the state has recorded 148 suspected cases of diphtheria, resulting in 23 deaths. Some local reports suggest the death toll may be as high as 27. Patients are currently receiving treatment at the Jos University Teaching Hospital and the Plateau Specialist Hospital, where isolation centers have been established.

The government has intensified vaccination and sensitization campaigns in affected communities. However, officials expressed concern regarding the current unavailability of diphtheria antitoxin in the country. The state has alerted the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) to assist with laboratory confirmation and sample transportation. Authorities have urged parents to ensure children complete routine immunizations and to keep students at home until further notice.

Entities

Caleb Mutfwang · Jos University Teaching Hospital · Joyce Lohya Ramnap · Nicholas Baamlong · Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention · Plateau State · Plateau State Government · Zamfara State

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[○ 1 SOURCE] There is an unavailability of diphtheria antitoxin in the country.
[● 6 SOURCES] The school closure directive takes effect on Monday, September 7, 2026. ait.live · silverbirdtv.com · gwg.ng · blueprint.ng · www.premiumtimesng.com
[● 5 SOURCES] The Plateau State Government ordered the temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools. ait.live · silverbirdtv.com · gwg.ng · blueprint.ng · www.premiumtimesng.com
[● 6 SOURCES] Suspected diphtheria cases have been reported in Jos North, Wase, Jos South, and Bassa Local Government Areas. ait.live · silverbirdtv.com · gwg.ng · blueprint.ng · www.premiumtimesng.com
[DISPUTED] Plateau State has recorded 148 suspected cases of diphtheria and 23 deaths.
[● 2 SOURCES] Patients are receiving treatment at Jos University Teaching Hospital and Plateau Specialist Hospital. www.premiumtimesng.com