Gombe state government said it will produce over one million units of face masks for distribution to people across the state, especially the less privileged as part of measures to curtail the spread of covid-19.

This was disclosed by the Chairman of the state Task Force on covid-19, Professor Idris Mohammed, while receiving a donation of locally made supporting items from the Gombe state office of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC.

He said “plans are underway to make it mandatory for everyone to wear face mask but that his committee will ensure the items are made available before the policy takes effect.”

The Task Force Chairman said already the face masks are being produced and will be made available as soon as they are ready in a couple of weeks.

He appreciated the NYSC for identifying with the state government at this trying time, adding that the gesture will significantly help the state government in attaining its plan of reaching every household with face masks and hand wash items.

The NYSC state coordinator, Florence Yaakugh while presenting the items said the Corps members in Gombe state have benefitted much from the state government as such the state deserves much from the NYSC, especially at this trying time when the entire world is engaged in the fight against the deadly virus.

“NYSC accords priority to skills acquisition programme, hence the youth corps members in the state took advantage of the scheme to produce locally made items that will compliment government’s effort in fighting the pandemic,” she said.

Items presented included 120 units of hand sanitizer, 160 packs of facemasks and 60 pieces of hand washing soap.