Chess competition reinforces human rights, dignity of prisons inmate-says UNODC
By Tada Juthan, Maiduguri
The United Nations on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) in collaboration with Chess in Slums Africa, and the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), has organized a chess master title competition for prisoners and officers in Maiduguri, Borno state.
According to UNODC, the Chess Master Title competition at the Maiduguri Maximum Security Custodial centre, was to break new grounds in prisoner rehabilitation and reintegration.
The representative of UNODC in Nigeria, Cheik Toure, disclosed this yesterday (Tuesday), in Maiduguri to mark International Human Rights Day.
“Today’s event was to emphasize the profound impact of the programme: "Chess is more than just a game; it 's a platform for learning strategy, patience, and decision-making skills.”
Additionally, he said the acquired skill are crucial for successful reintegration of inmates into the society.
Toure stated that the chess competition title at the NCoS is to celebrated the values of personal growth and ethical behaviour.
During yesterday’s chess competition, both prisoners and officers vied for the prestigious title of "Chess Master," showcasing not only their developing chess skills, but the programme's emphasis on building sportsmanship, fostering mutual respect, and promoting personal transformation within the custodial centres.
He noted that the event underscored the transformative power of chess in rehabilitating and empowering individuals.
Besides, the transformative power, he stated the chess title competition, also reinforces the importance of human rights and dignity in correctional settings.
Meanwhile, Tunde Onakoya, is the Guinness World Record Holder for the Chess in Slums Africa.
Highlighting the importance of chess among inmates, he said the UNODC initiative introduces chess as a transformative, intellectually stimulating and engaging activity.
He said: “We aimed 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.”
