Multichoice, the company behind DStv and GOtv, has announced a forthcoming price increase, adding to the burdens faced by Nigerians dealing with the aftermath of fuel subsidy removal, rising inflation, a weakening Naira, forex crises, and insecurity. The new price adjustments, set to take effect on November 6, represent about a 20% increase, marking the third price hike by the South African firm in 2023.
In a letter dated November 1, addressed to their partners, Multichoice explained the need for the price adjustment due to rising business operational costs. They emphasized their commitment to delivering high-quality content and top-tier service to their valued customers.
The new price list for DStv reveals changes in various packages, with the Premium bouquet moving from N24,500 to N29,500, Compact+ from N16,600 to N19,800, Compact from N10,500 to N12,500, and Confam from N6,200 to N7,400, among others. For GOtv users, Supa+ will increase from N10,500 to N12,500, Supa from N6400 to N7,600, Max from N4850 to N5,700, and Jolli from N3,300 to N3,950, among others.
While an official of Multichoice neither confirmed nor denied the tariff hike, some subscribers reported receiving SMS notifications about the impending subscription fee increases.
Multichoice’s revenue has been on the rise, with a 29% growth compared to the previous year, reaching N277 billion in subscriptions, which contributed significantly to the Multichoice Group’s overall revenue growth.
Sina Bilesanmi, the President of the Association of Telephone, Cable TV, and Internet Subscribers of Nigeria (ATCIS), has called for a boycott of DStv and GOtv services, labeling the price hike as exploitative. He urged President Tinubu and the National Assembly to intervene and ensure alternatives, including Pay Per View options, are made available to Nigerians. Despite numerous letters to Multichoice, the association claims their concerns have been ignored.