Athletes in SO Nigeria terminology are people with intellectual disabilities, also known as special needs. Hence this is the only category of people who can become athletes. However, unified partners – people without ID who play alongside athletes are open to the general public

No. SO Nigeria is a non-governmental platform and relies on the partnership with well meaning individuals, organizations and agencies

No. While Paralympics focus on people with physical disabilities, Special Olympics focuses on individuals with intellectual disabilities

Special Olympics Nigeria activities are free of charge

The term ‘special’ was coined as a positive language by Eunice Kennedy Shriver to create an upbeat tone when describing people with intellectual disabilities. This is a far cry from the term formerly used to describe this group – ‘retarded’. With the term ‘Special’, she wanted people to dwell on the abilities of the athletes, not disabilities.