For the second time in less than a year, MultiChoice Nigeria has announced an increase in subscription fees for its DStv and GOtv packages, with the new rates set to take effect from March 1, 2025.
In a statement issued to customers on Monday, the Pay-TV provider explained that the price adjustment was necessary to sustain the delivery of high-quality local and international content using advanced technology. However, the move has sparked widespread reactions, with many subscribers expressing frustration over the continuous rise in costs.
The revised pricing structure shows a significant increase across all DStv and GOtv packages. DStv Compact will now cost ₦19,000, up from ₦15,700, while Compact Plus will jump to ₦30,000. Premium subscribers will have to pay ₦44,500 for their package.
GOtv users are also affected, as the basic package will move from ₦3,600 to ₦3,900, while GOtv Plus will rise from ₦4,850 to ₦5,800. The GOtv Max package will now cost ₦8,500, and the Supa and Supa Plus packages will be ₦11,400 and ₦16,800, respectively.
MultiChoice has attributed the price hike to rising operational costs, inflation, and the depreciation of the naira, factors that have affected businesses across Nigeria.
The announcement has triggered an outpouring of reactions from Nigerians, many of whom took to social media to express their frustration. Some described the frequent price hikes as exploitative, while others joked about selling off their decoders.
A user, @Micheal0079, commented: “Aseju ni DSTV, NTA is ok. They said let the poor breathe, yet they are suffocating us.”
Another, @dare93_official, sarcastically posted: “DStv decoder for sale abeg. Anything anything.”
Some users linked the price hikes to broader economic and political decisions. @dejballer wrote: “Woo, las las, we go dey alright. But if you like, don’t choose wisely in 2027 o. Then you’ll come back here crying and dragging brands that are just trying to survive like everyone else.”
Others believe MultiChoice is taking advantage of Nigerian subscribers. @Kingdou_05 expressed his frustration, saying: “South Africans don’t even like Nigerians to start with, from MTN to DStv, so it’s not new at all. And Nigerians won’t do jack!! If una rant finish, una go rest. Them don see us finish.
With the continuous increase in Pay-TV subscription costs, many Nigerians are exploring alternatives, including streaming services and free-to-air options. Some customers have already started considering switching to cheaper or local alternatives, while others are calling for government intervention in regulating Pay-TV pricing.
Despite the backlash, MultiChoice appears unmoved, emphasizing its commitment to offering premium entertainment while managing rising operational costs. With the new prices set to kick in within days, subscribers now face a tough decision—adjust to the new rates, downgrade their plans, or seek other options.
