Have you been wondering what Man O’ War drills are all about during NYSC?
Are you asking questions like: What happens during NYSC Man O’ War drills? or Do I have to climb ropes, crawl under nets, or march in the sun?
If yes, you’re not alone.
For many prospective corps members (PCMs), the idea of Man O’ War training sounds intense, mysterious, and even scary. But here’s the truth: while it can be physically demanding, it’s one of the most exciting and confidence-building parts of NYSC camp life.
So, if you’ve been searching for what to expect from NYSC Man O’ War drills, this post will give you all the details—from what it involves, why it matters, and how to prepare written in simple English with clear explanations.
What Is NYSC Man O’ War?
NYSC Man O’ War is a segment of the orientation camp programme aimed at promoting discipline, unity, physical fitness, and leadership skills among corps members.
It includes physical drills, group challenges, mental tasks, and obstacle courses organized and supervised by trained officers. It is usually done during the early days of camp and is compulsory for every corps member.
The name “Man O’ War” comes from a Nigerian paramilitary group focused on character building and national development.
Why Is Man O’ War Training Part of NYSC?
The purpose of the Man O’ War drills during NYSC is to:
Instill discipline and mental strength
Encourage teamwork and unity
Boost self-confidence and endurance
Develop leadership and problem-solving skills
Teach basic self-defense and survival strategies
It’s not just physical—it’s also about developing the right mindset for national service.
What to Expect from NYSC Man O’ War Drills
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what usually happens during this training:
1. Early Morning Exercises
Man O’ War usually starts very early in the morning (as early as 4:30 AM or 5:00 AM). You’ll be asked to:
Stretch
Jog
Warm up
Do basic fitness routines
The goal is to wake your body up and prepare you for the activities ahead.
2. Marching and Parade Coordination
Marching is part of the broader NYSC routine but sometimes included in Man O’ War sessions too. You’ll be taught how to:
Match in rhythm
Obey parade commands
Work as a team with your platoon
3. Obstacle Challenges
This is the highlight of Man O’ War. You’ll be asked to overcome various physical obstacles such as:
Climbing ropes
Walking on narrow planks
Scaling walls
Crawling under barbed wires or nets
Jumping over trenches
Don’t worry, you won’t be forced to do anything beyond your ability. However, you’re encouraged to at least try everything.
4. Team Bonding Tasks
You’ll engage in group-based tasks like:
Group rope pulling
Trust falls (where one person falls backward and the group catches them)
Role-playing leadership and coordination tasks
These activities help improve teamwork and mutual trust among corps members.
5. Leadership and Mental Drills
These include:
Listening to short lectures
Performing role plays
Solving simple group tasks
The aim is to build leadership skills and test your problem-solving ability.
Is Man O’ War Compulsory in NYSC?
Yes, participating in Man O’ War is part of the mandatory NYSC orientation program. However, if you have a valid medical condition or disability, you can be exempted or assigned less strenuous tasks.
How to Prepare for NYSC Man O’ War Drills
Here’s how you can get ready physically and mentally:
Stay fit: Start jogging or doing basic exercises before camp
Wear the right gear: NYSC will give you kits, but you can also bring extra sneakers, socks, and comfortable clothes
Stay hydrated: Drink lots of water during camp
Follow instructions: Respect the officers and fellow corps members
Don’t fake injuries: You’ll miss out on valuable experiences
What to Bring Specifically for Man O’ War Activities
To stay comfortable and safe, pack the following:
Good running shoes or sneakers
Comfortable sportswear
Water bottle
Gloves (optional but helpful for rope activities)
Basic first aid items (plaster, balm)
Benefits of NYSC Man O’ War Drills
Even if you’re not a fan of physical activity, the Man O’ War drills can benefit you in several ways:
Boosts self-confidence
Improves physical and mental health
Encourages discipline and obedience
Builds leadership and teamwork
Helps you overcome fears and push your limits
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Man O’ War training difficult?
It can be physically demanding, but it’s designed to be doable for most people. You are not expected to be perfect—just willing to try.
2. Can I skip Man O’ War if I’m not feeling well?
Yes, but you need to report to the camp clinic and get medical clearance.
3. Do I need any special clothing for Man O’ War?
No, but wearing comfortable sports shoes and breathable clothes will help. The NYSC kit includes what you need.
4. What time does Man O’ War usually start?
Around 4:30 AM to 5:00 AM. Prepare to wake up early throughout camp.
5. Will I get hurt during Man O’ War?
The drills are supervised, and safety measures are in place. However, minor injuries (like muscle pulls or bruises) can happen, just like in any physical activity.
6. How long does Man O’ War last in camp?
It usually lasts for the first 7–10 days of the 3-week orientation camp.
7. Can I fail Man O’ War?
There’s no pass or fail. It’s not an exam. Just participate actively and be cooperative.
8. Are the officers friendly?
Yes, but they are firm and disciplined. Respect them, and they’ll respect you.
9. Do all camps do the same Man O’ War drills?
The activities are generally similar, but some camps might have more or fewer obstacle setups depending on their location and facilities.
10. What happens after Man O’ War?
You move on to other camp activities like SAED (Skills Acquisition), lectures, platoon competitions, and preparation for final posting.
