The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has announced that Nigerians will no longer be required to pay annual Digital Access Fees under the revamped Digital Switch Over (DSO) programme.
Speaking in Abuja, NBC Director-General Charles Ebuebu explained that viewers will only need to purchase an approved decoder and satellite dish, expected to cost less than N20,000, to enjoy permanent access to free-to-air television channels.
He said the previous annual digital access charge of about N1,500 has been removed, allowing users to watch all available free-to-air channels without paying any recurring subscription or administrative fee.
According to Ebuebu, premium television channels will be introduced at a later stage for viewers who wish to subscribe, while locally available free-to-air content will remain accessible at no cost.
He disclosed that the commission will soon announce authorised dealers for the approved FreeTV decoders and advised Nigerians to avoid purchasing equipment from unauthorised sellers taking advantage of rising demand.
The NBC boss explained that users will require a free-to-air decoder and a satellite dish, replacing the old antenna system, to receive the DSO signal. Once installed, the equipment will provide access to television channels nationwide without any subscription fees.
Ebuebu also dismissed claims that multiple categories of approved decoders are being sold at different prices, insisting that only products supplied through authorised dealers should be considered genuine.
He added that the commission will publish the official list of approved dealers, prices, and sales locations to help consumers identify authentic decoder boxes and accessories.
Beyond improving television broadcasting, Ebuebu said the renewed DSO project is expected to boost economic growth by creating jobs, attracting investments, and expanding opportunities for businesses linked to the broadcasting industry.
He noted that broadcasters and content creators will benefit from wider national coverage, allowing television stations to reach audiences across Nigeria instead of being limited to specific regions.
The NBC Director-General further revealed that the introduction of audience measurement technology will provide accurate television viewership data, giving advertisers greater confidence while helping broadcasters demonstrate the true size and reach of their audiences across the country.
