In celebration of Nelson Mandela’s enduring legacy, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), and the non-profit organization Chess in Slums Africa have launched a pioneering chess program at the Maiduguri Maximum and Medium Security Custodial Centers in Borno state. This initiative aims to challenge the stigma of imprisonment by demonstrating the potential for personal growth and transformation among inmates.
The program, inspired by Mandela’s belief in the power of change within every individual, seeks to reduce recidivism rates and contribute to safer communities by focusing on rehabilitation and skill development. Through engaging in chess, inmates are provided with opportunities for intellectual stimulation and the development of critical life skills, promoting a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.
Danilo Campisi, Deputy Country Representative of UNODC in Nigeria, emphasized the significance of the initiative: “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 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.”
Tunde Onakoya, Founder of Chess in Slums Africa, echoed this 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 enthusiasm for the program, noting that learning chess offers a mental escape and a new approach to problem-solving. One participant in the pilot phase shared, “Chess teaches us to think before we act, to plan ahead. These are lessons that go beyond the game.”
The initiative follows the recent commissioning and handover of a newly built and equipped clinic, along with a furnished showroom to display products made by inmates from the two custodial centers in Borno state. Earlier this week, UNODC also donated sports equipment and apparel to six custodial centers in northeast Nigeria, including the Maiduguri facilities, to promote sports and physical activity among inmates.
Abdullahi Dahiru Mbaya, Controller of Corrections for Borno State, highlighted the impact of UNODC’s support, funded by the United States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL). “This intervention will contribute to the Correctional Service fulfilling its mandate regarding rehabilitation of inmates and allow the public to see the potential of the inmates, inspiring hope for their futures beyond the walls of the custodial centres.”
- Tags: Chess In Slums, Crime, Drugs, Nelson Mandela Day, Prisons, UNODC
