By: Mnena Iyorkegh, Abuja
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) and the innovative non-profit organization Chess in Slums Africa have launched the transformative game of chess to the Maiduguri Maximum and Medium Security Custodial Centers, in Borno state, Northern part of Nigeria, to celebrates the legacy of Nelson Mandela.
The initiative aims to tackle the stigma associated with imprisonment by highlighting the potential for growth and change within inmates.
The program aspires to reduce the rate of re-offending and contribute to safer communities by focusing on rehabilitation and skill development.
Through the program, inmates can engage in meaningful activities that will stimulate their minds and promote a sense of accomplishment and self-worth. Nelson Mandela believed in the potential for change within every individual, and chess can fuel that change!
Speaking on the importance of this initiative, the Deputy Country Representative of UNODC in Nigeria, Danilo Campisi, said “Chess, with its intellectual rigor and strategic thinking, can equip inmates with critical life skills, improve their mental health, and provide a constructive outlet for their energy. While inmates (prisoners) may have made wrong choices in life, it is crucial that we support and empower them with skills that aid their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. UNODC is excited about this initiative and the partnership with the Nigerian Correctional Service and Chess in Slums Africa. Through this programme, we hope to see the next chess champions emerge from the custodial centre.”
Also the Founder of Chess in Slums Africa, shared his vision: “We have seen firsthand how chess can transform lives in the most challenging environments. Bringing chess to custodial centres is a natural extension of our mission to use the game as a tool for social change. We are honoured to partner with UNODC to make this a reality.”
Inmates expressed their excitement about the programme, stating that learning chess will provide them with a mental escape and a new way to approach problem-solving.
One of the inmate who participated in the pilot phase shared, “Chess teaches us to think before we act, to plan ahead. These are lessons that go beyond the game”
Earlier this week, UNODC also donated sports equipment and apparel to six custodial centres in Northeast Nigeria, including Maiduguri Maximum and Medium Security Custodial Centers in Borno, with the aim to promote sports in these facilities.
Speaking at the handover event, The NCoS Controller of Corrections for Borno State, Abdullahi Dahiru Mbaya, noted that the support from UNODC with funding from the United States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), will help the correctional service showcase the remarkable talents and abilities of inmates –
“ this intervention will contribute to the Correctional Service fulfilling its mandate, regarding rehabilitation of inmates and allow the public see the potential of the inmates, inspiring hope for their futures beyond the walls of the custodial centres”.
UNODC, the Nigerian Correctional Service and Chess in Slums Africa, While appreciating the United States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) as well as the Federal Government of Germany (2021-2023) for the funding and its work on prison and penal reform in Nigeria, call on all to be part of the initiative and follow the journey of the inmates as they learn, grow, and transform through the game of chess.
This initiative was launched following the commissioning and handover of a newly built and equipped clinic with a furnished showroom, constructed to display products made by inmates from the two custodial centres in Borno state, the day before.
