By Desire Uzochukwu
The Plateau State Government has made face masks compulsory for passengers using TinCity Metro buses as part of intensified measures to contain the spread of diphtheria in the state.
The Plateau Express Services Group announced the directive on Monday, September 7, 2026, introducing a “No Face Mask, No Entry” policy for commuters.
The new measure takes effect on Tuesday, September 8, and will remain in force until further notice.
In a statement, the management said the directive was part of the state government’s ongoing response to the diphtheria outbreak and was aimed at reducing the risk of transmission among passengers who use public transportation.
“Passengers without face masks will not be allowed to board TinCity Metro buses,” the management said, urging commuters to comply with the directive and cooperate with personnel responsible for enforcing the policy.
The transport operator said a limited quantity of face masks had been made available at designated boarding points to assist passengers as enforcement begins.
It nevertheless warned commuters not to rely on the emergency supply, urging them to come prepared with their own masks.
“Passengers are strongly advised to come along with their own face masks, as the available supply is limited and may not be sufficient for all commuters,” the statement said.
The compulsory masking policy comes as health authorities intensify efforts to prevent further spread of diphtheria, a highly contagious bacterial infection that can spread through respiratory droplets and close contact.
The management appealed to passengers to see compliance as a shared responsibility, stressing that controlling a public health outbreak would require cooperation from both commuters and transport operators.
It also assured residents that it remained committed to providing a safer public transportation environment during the outbreak.
The development means commuters using TinCity Metro from Tuesday will have to put on face masks before boarding, with passengers without masks potentially turned away at designated terminals.
The management thanked passengers for their understanding and cooperation, saying the temporary restrictions were necessary to support broader efforts to protect public health across Plateau State.
