Plateau schools reopen September 14 after diphtheria scare
September 11, 2026 5:01 pm
The Plateau State Government has directed all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state to resume academic activities on Monday, September 14, 2026, as the 2026/27 academic session begins, while strengthening measures to prevent the spread of diphtheria.
The government said the decision followed the implementation of precautionary and public health measures to contain reported cases of suspected diphtheria infection in some parts of the state.
Last Saturday, the government had ordered the immediate temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state.
According to Ramnap, the closure takes effect from Monday(tomorrow) and will remain in force “until further notice.”
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, on Friday, the government said the decision was “in line with the administration’s commitment to safeguarding the health and wellbeing of pupils, students, teachers and other members of the school community while ensuring continuity in the education sector.”
The statement said, “Following the implementation of precautionary and public health measures to contain the reported cases of suspected Diphtheria infection in some parts of the State, the Plateau State Government has directed the resumption of academic activities in all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state with effect from Monday, September 14, 2026.”
It added, “The decision is taken in line with the administration’s commitment to safeguarding the health and wellbeing of pupils, students, teachers and other members of the school community while ensuring continuity in the education sector.”
According to the government, the measures were intended to strengthen health surveillance and response mechanisms.
It said, “The temporary closure of schools, which took effect on September 7, 2026, was a preventive measure designed to provide health authorities with the opportunity to assess the situation and strengthen surveillance and response mechanisms in affected and potentially affected communities.”
The government assured parents, guardians, school proprietors and administrators that measures were being put in place ahead of the resumption.
“Government assures parents, guardians, school proprietors and administrators that appropriate health measures are being put in place to combat the disease and minimise the risk of transmission as schools reopen,” the statement said.
It directed school authorities to maintain basic precautions and hygienic environments.
“All school authorities are expected to have basic precautionary measures, maintain a clean and hygienic learning environment, while teachers and school management are encouraged to remain vigilant for symptoms or signs suggestive of Diphtheria and promptly alert the appropriate health authorities,” the statement said.
The government also urged parents and guardians to maintain personal hygiene and take prompt action where symptoms occur.
“Parents and guardians are equally urged to take personal hygiene seriously, including regular handwashing, maintaining clean surroundings, avoiding unnecessary close contact with persons showing suspicious symptoms, and seeking medical attention promptly whenever a child or any member of the household develops concerning symptoms,” it said.
The statement further advised that suspected cases should be taken to health facilities for assessment and treatment.
“Any suspected or identified case should be taken immediately to the nearest health centre or appropriate health facility for proper assessment and management,” the government said.
It added, “Members of the public are advised against self-medication or concealing suspected cases, as early detection and appropriate treatment remain critical to preventing further spread.”
The government urged all stakeholders in the education sector to comply with the health advisories as schools resume.
“Parents, guardians, school proprietors, teachers and students are therefore urged to support the government’s efforts by adhering to all health advisories and ensuring that the resumption of academic activities is accompanied by responsible health practices,” the statement said.
Tosin Oyediran is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over eight years of professional experience in reporting and storytelling. He is known for conducting incisive interviews and producing compelling human-angle stories that bring clarity and depth to the news. Tosin covers a broad range of beats including politics, health, advocacy, sports, and entertainment, with a strong focus on people-centred reporting. His work reflects firsthand newsroom experience, editorial insight, and a commitment to accurate, engaging, and trustworthy journalism.
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