Passengers using TinCity Metro buses in Plateau State will be required to wear face masks from Tuesday, September 8, 2026, as the state intensifies measures to contain the spread of diphtheria.
The management of Plateau Express Services Group announced the enforcement of a “No Face Mask, No Entry” policy on all TinCity Metro buses in a statement issued on Monday.
The directive will remain in effect until further notice and applies to passengers boarding the state-owned intra-city mass transit buses operating within the Jos metropolis.
The management said a limited number of face masks would be made available at designated boarding points to assist commuters as enforcement begins.
However, passengers were advised to come with their own masks, as the available supplies may not be enough to meet the needs of all commuters.
Management also urged passengers to cooperate with TinCity Metro personnel, stressing that collective responsibility was necessary to contain the public health outbreak and protect commuters.
The measure comes amid growing concern over a suspected diphtheria outbreak in Plateau State. The disease is a bacterial infection that can spread through respiratory droplets and close contact.
Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Nicholas Baamlong, said the state had recorded 148 suspected cases and 23 deaths in the preceding two weeks. Eight patients were receiving treatment at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), while another five were being treated at the Plateau Specialist Hospital.
The state government has also intensified sensitisation and vaccination campaigns in affected communities, while urging residents to maintain good hygiene, avoid overcrowded environments and ensure that children receive their routine vaccinations.
The TinCity Metro face-mask policy is the latest measure introduced as authorities work to reduce the risk of further transmission, particularly in crowded public spaces and transportation.
