Nigerians no longer have to pay an annual fee for free-to-air TV. NBC has removed the Digital Access Fee under its renewed Digital Switch Over (DSO) platform, so FreeTV is now free to watch, with no recurring payments.
In an exclusive interview, NBC Director-General Charles Ebuebu explained that all users now need is an approved decoder and satellite dish, which are expected to cost less than US$14.5, to get permanent access to free-to-air channels.
“Previously, users paid an annual digital access fee of about US$1.09, described as an administrative charge. The new system removes that annual fee. It provides free access to free-to-air television channels without any payment,” he said.
He added that premium channels will be introduced down the line, and viewers who want access to those will be able to pay for them separately. But the basics won’t change: “Nigerian content on free-to-air channels remains free to watch. Unlike Pay TV, this platform does not require monthly subscriptions for its basic service.”
Ebuebu also urged Nigerians to only buy decoders from authorised dealers, warning that scammers could try to take advantage of the rollout. He said the Commission will soon release a list of approved outlets, along with official prices and sales locations, to help protect consumers. He further clarified that viewers need a FreeTV decoder and a satellite dish, which will now replace the old antenna system.
Beyond making TV more accessible, Ebuebu said the renewed DSO project is also expected to create jobs, attract more investment in the broadcasting industry, and introduce audience measurement technology to help broadcasters and advertisers make smarter business decisions.
