The Plateau State Government has directed the temporary closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools across the state with effect from Monday, September 7, 2026, as part of measures to prevent the spread of suspected diphtheria disease. Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang gave the directive in a statement made available to journalists in Jos, signed by the State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Ramnap follows reports of suspected diphtheria cases in some parts of the state, particularly Jos North, Wase, Jos South , and Bassa Local Government Areas. Ramnap said schools that had already resumed academic activities were also required to close from Monday and remain shut until further notice. According to the Commissioner, the measure is aimed at protecting the health and well-being of pupils, students, teaching staff, and non-teaching personnel while the government responds to the situation. “School proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents, and guardians to comply fully with the directive and ensure that pupils and students remain safely at home throughout the period,” She warned The state government appealed to all stakeholders for their understanding and cooperation, assuring residents that it would continue to take appropriate measures in the best interest of the people of Plateau State. The government said further information regarding the resumption of academic activities would be communicated to the public in due course.

Nigeria has recorded 14 new cases of Lassa Fever brought the cumulative infections to 1,035 cases in 2026. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) disclosed in its Week 33 situation report released in Abuja on Tuesday, stated that the cases were recorded between August 10 and August 16 in Bauchi, Benue, Ondo and Edo states. According to the report, the 14 new cases represented an increase from four cases reported during epidemiological...