The Nigerian House of Representatives has directed MultiChoice Nigeria, the operator of DStv and GOtv, to suspend its planned increase in subscription rates, citing the prevailing economic challenges faced by Nigeria citizens.
MultiChoice recently announced that, effective March 1, 2025, subscription fees across various packages would rise:
- DStv Premium: from ₦37,000 to ₦44,500
- Compact Plus: from ₦25,000 to ₦30,000
- Compact: from ₦17,000 to ₦19,000
This marks the second price hike in less than a year, with the previous increase implemented in May 2024.
During a recent plenary session, Representative Esosa Iyawe (APC, Edo State) introduced a motion expressing concern over the frequent subscription fee increases by MultiChoice. He highlighted that many Nigerians are already grappling with rising living costs and that the lack of competition in the pay-TV sector exacerbates the situation.
The House unanimously adopted the motion, directing MultiChoice to halt the planned price hike and mandating its Committee on Commerce to investigate the recurring increases. The committee is expected to recommend measures that ensure fair pricing for consumers and is to report its findings within four weeks.
The announcement of the price increase has sparked widespread public outrage, As many subscribers feel burdened by the additional costs, especially given the current economic climate. Some have threatened to discontinue their subscriptions if the hikes are implemented.
MultiChoice has attributed the price adjustments to increased operational costs driven by economic factors. The company maintains that the hike is necessary to continue delivering quality content and services to its subscribers.
As the House Committee on Commerce embarks on its investigation, subscribers await the outcome, hoping for a resolution that balances the company’s operational needs with consumers’ economic realities.
