The Federal Government of Nigeria (FG) has unveiled FreeTV, a new national digital television platform designed to provide millions Nigerians with free access to over 100 television channels with no recurring subscription fees, as reported by TheCable.
The platform is set to launch on June 17 as part of the country’s ongoing Digital Switch-Over (DSO) program aimed at expanding digital broadcasting and improving access to information and entertainment across the country.
According to government officials, FreeTV will offer a wide variety of content, including news, sports, movies, music, educational programs, children’s shows and dedicated channels in major Nigerian languages such as Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo.
The service will be available via satellite and terrestrial transmission networks, while a dedicated mobile application will allow users to watch content on smartphones and other devices.
Authorities said the initiative is expected to improve access to television in both urban and rural communities.
No monthly subscription required
The government has said that households will not need to buy new television sets to access the service, provided they already use compatible DVB-T2 or DVB-S2 decoders.
Existing users of free decoders may also be able to connect to the platform without purchasing additional equipment.
Officials described the project as part of a broader effort to promote digital inclusion, create jobs and expand access to opportunity under the administration’s development agenda.
NBC highlights opportunities for creative industries
Speaking ahead of the launch, the Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Charles Ebuebu, said the platform will not only increase access to digital content, but also create employment opportunities in the media and creative sectors.
“FreeTV speaks directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope vision towards expanding access, creating opportunities and ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of location or income, can benefit from the digital economy,” Ebuebu said.
“With FreeTV, families across Nigeria can enjoy quality digital television without paying a monthly subscription, while our local content producers, technicians and young creatives get new platforms and new jobs.”
Planned regional production centers
NBC also disclosed that the initiative will support Nigeria’s creative economy through regional production studios located in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Kano and Benin.
The facilities are expected to create opportunities for content creators, editors, cameramen, sound engineers, technicians and other professionals involved in broadcasting and media production.
Meanwhile, the Commission has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s final transition from analogue broadcasting remains scheduled for December 31, 2028.
Citizens are encouraged to check the compatibility of their decoders and download the FreeTV mobile app before the nationwide rollout.
