Pay-TV operator MultiChoice Nigeria has announced a 21% increase in subscription price for its DStv Compact package, raising the cost from N15,700 to N19,000, effective March 1, 2025.
This price hike follows a similar adjustment in May 2024, which MultiChoice attributed to inflation and rising operational costs. However, the latest increase has sparked widespread criticism, with many subscribers taking to social media to express frustration over frequent hikes without service improvements.
In a notice sent to customers, the company defended the price adjustment, stating:
“This is to enable us to continue offering our customers world-class homegrown and international content, delivered through the best technology.”
While the DStv Compact package will see an increase, MultiChoice confirmed that the Compact Plus and Premium bouquets will remain at N30,000 and N44,500, respectively.
Subscriber Backlash Over Frequent Price Hikes
The announcement has renewed discontent among customers, with many complaining about repetitive content, service interruptions, and a lack of real competition in the pay-TV sector.
One subscriber, Okechukwu, criticized the platform’s programming:
“Apart from repeating movies—sometimes on two channels at the same time—there’s a constant interruption to check if you’re subscribed or authorized to watch a channel, even when you have the Supa+ package.”
Another user, Kevin Okeke, suggested that subscribers will begin looking for alternatives:
“More people will switch to better options, especially those who don’t care about football matches.”
Many subscribers also blamed MultiChoice’s market dominance, arguing that the company has no strong competitors, which makes price hikes frequent and uncontested.
One frustrated customer, Ramsey, even called for a boycott of DStv, stating:
“The last increment was less than a year ago, and now another one? It’s time to boycott this company.”
Also, As Nigerians grapple with rising living costs, from electricity tariffs to fuel prices, some have questioned the affordability of pay-TV services in the country.
Oburu Chinedu, expressing broader frustration, said:
“The way we pay tariffs in this country, you’d think we were in London or Dubai! Even electricity is outrageously expensive. How did we get here?”
With discontent growing, the big question remains: Will MultiChoice reconsider its pricing, or will Nigerians start looking for alternative streaming platforms?
Stay tuned to 9am News Nigeria for more Breaking News, Business News, Sports updates And Entertainment Gists.
