UNODC’s Chess in Slums campaign moves to Borno correctional centre

Inmates of the Maiduguri Maximum Security Custodial Centre were ecstatic, at the weekend, when the United Nations Organisation on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC), in collaboration with the Chess in Slums Africa (CHSA), took their campaign to the correctional facility as part of efforts to teach them life changing skills.

The campaign, which included a chess masters’ competition, according to the facilitators, was aimed at empowering the prison inmates with special skills that would aid their reintegration into the society.

Satisfied by the impact on the inmates, the UN agency said the chess competition broke new grounds in prisoner rehabilitation and reintegration to the various communities in the country.

Speaking at the facility, UNODC representative in Nigeria, Cheik Toure, said the campaign was part of activities to mark the International Human Rights Day in Maiduguri, Borno State, explaining: “Today’s event is to emphasise the profound impact of the programme as chess is more than just a game; it is a platform for learning strategy, patience and decision-making skills.”

He said the skills acquired by the inmates were crucial to their successful reintegration into the society, adding that the NCoS Centre used the sport to celebrate the values of personal growth and ethical behaviours among the prison inmates.

During the competition, both inmates and officers vied to become chess masters. They also showcased not only their chess skills, but also adhered to the programme’s emphasis on building sportsmanship to foster mutual respect among competitors.

Highlighting the importance of chess among the inmates, Tunde Onakoya, a Guinness World Record holder in chess, said the UNODC initiative introduced the sport as a transformative, intellectually stimulating and engaging activity.

“Our aim is to equip prisoners with critical life skills, improve their mental health, and provide a constructive outlet for their energy – all with a view to improving their reintegration prospects following their release from prisons,” he said.