The Federal Government has unveiled FreeTV, a new digital television platform that will provide Nigerians with access to more than 100 television channels without monthly subscription fees.
The platform is scheduled to launch on June 17, 2026, as part of Nigeria’s ongoing Digital Switch-Over (DSO) programme aimed at expanding digital broadcasting and improving access to information and entertainment across the country.
According to government officials, FreeTV will offer a wide range of content, including news, sports, movies, music, educational programmes, children’s content and dedicated channels in major Nigerian languages such as Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo.
The service will be available through both satellite and terrestrial broadcasting networks, while a dedicated mobile application will enable users to stream content on smartphones, tablets and other internet-enabled devices.
Authorities said the initiative is designed to improve access to quality television content for millions of Nigerians, particularly those in underserved and rural communities.
A major attraction of the platform is that users will not be required to pay recurring subscription fees.
The government explained that households with compatible DVB-T2 or DVB-S2 decoders will be able to access the service without purchasing new television sets. Existing free-to-air decoder users may also be able to connect to the platform without additional equipment.
Officials described the project as part of broader efforts to promote digital inclusion, expand access to information and create economic opportunities within the country’s growing digital economy.
Speaking ahead of the rollout, National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) Director-General, Charles Ebuebu, said the platform aligns with efforts to expand opportunities for Nigerians through technology and digital broadcasting.
According to him, the initiative will not only increase access to television content but also create new opportunities for local content producers, media professionals and creative talents.
“With FreeTV, families across Nigeria can enjoy quality digital television without a monthly subscription, while our local content producers, technicians and young creatives gain new platforms and new jobs,” he said.
The NBC also disclosed plans to establish regional production hubs in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Kano and Benin City.
The facilities are expected to support Nigeria’s creative industry by creating jobs for content creators, editors, camera operators, sound engineers, broadcasters and other media professionals.
The commission further reiterated that Nigeria remains committed to completing its transition from analogue to digital broadcasting, with the final switch-off date set for December 31, 2028.
Citizens were encouraged to confirm that their decoders are compatible with the platform and download the FreeTV mobile application ahead of the nationwide rollout.
The launch of FreeTV is expected to significantly expand access to digital television services while reducing the financial burden of subscription-based television for many Nigerian households.
