In a move that has stirred discussions among subscribers, MultiChoice Nigeria has unveiled plans to increase subscription fees for its DStv and GOtv services. The decision, announced on Monday, has sparked concerns among consumers already grappling with economic challenges.
Effective May 1, 2024, DStv Premium, the company’s top-tier package, will witness an upward adjustment from ₦18,400 to ₦19,800. Similarly, the Compact Plus bouquet will now cost ₦13,600, up from ₦12,400. DStv Compact subscribers will experience a hike from ₦7,900 to ₦8,800, while the Family package jumps from ₦4,500 to ₦4,900. The Access package will now be priced at ₦2,400, up from ₦2,200.
For GOtv users, the Max package will see an increase from ₦3,600 to ₦3,900, while the Plus package rises to ₦2,600 from ₦2,400. The Value package will now cost ₦1,800, up from ₦1,650, and the Lite package will witness a hike from ₦1,200 to ₦1,350.
Reacting to the price adjustments, John Ade, a DStv subscriber, expressed disappointment, stating, “This increase is coming at a time when many Nigerians are grappling with economic challenges. It’s going to be tough for some of us to afford these new rates.”
In response to inquiries about the rationale behind the price hike, MultiChoice Nigeria cited factors such as inflation, rising operational costs, and investments in content acquisition and technology upgrades. The company emphasized its commitment to providing quality entertainment and maintaining its position as a leading pay-TV service provider in Nigeria.
MultiChoice Nigeria further assured subscribers of continued value and an enhanced viewing experience, promising to deliver an extensive range of local and international content across its platforms.
The announcement comes amidst a backdrop of economic uncertainty and consumer apprehension, with many questioning the timing and necessity of the price adjustments. As subscribers brace themselves for the impending changes, the debate over the affordability and value proposition of pay-TV services in Nigeria is likely to intensify.