NBC scraps annual digital TV access fee

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has declared that Nigerians will no longer pay annual Digital Access Fees under the renewed Digital Switch Over (DSO) project.

The NBC Director-General, Charles Ebuebu, said this in Abuja on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

Ebuebu said viewers only need to purchase an approved decoder and satellite dish which cost below N20,000 to enjoy free television permanently.

Ebuebu stated: “Previously, users paid an annual digital access fee of about N1,500, described as an administrative charge.

“The new system removes that annual fee. It provides free access to free-to-air television channels without any payment.

“Premium channels will be introduced later. Viewers who want those additional channels will be able to access them through paid services.

“Nigerian content on free-to-air channels remains free to watch. Unlike Pay TV, this platform does not require monthly subscriptions for its basic service.”

Ebuebu said approved decoders for the Freetv will cost less than N20,000 and authorised sales outlets will soon be announced

The NBC boss urged Nigerians to wait for official information on approved dealers for the DSO decoders, warning that unauthorised sellers are exploiting growing public demand.

He reiterated that people only need a free-to-air decoder, along with a satellite dish instead of the old antenna system to receive the DSO signal.

“Once the equipment is installed, viewers can access all available channels across the country without paying any subscription fees,” Ebuebu stressed.

The NBC DG dismissed claims by some retailers that there are different categories of decoders sold at varying prices, stressing that such sellers are not authorised by the commission.

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Ebuebu added that the NBC would soon publish the list of approved dealers, official prices, and locations where genuine decoder boxes and accessories can be purchased.

The NBC boss said the DSO project is designed not only to improve television broadcasting but also to stimulate economic growth by creating jobs, attracting investment, and opening up opportunities for businesses that support the broadcasting industry.

Ebuebu noted that content producers and broadcasters stand to benefit significantly from the nationwide reach of the DSO platform.

Unlike the previous system, where many stations had limited regional audiences, Ebuebu said the new platform will make their channels available to viewers across Nigeria.

He added that the introduction of audience measurement technology will provide scientific and reliable data on television viewership.

Ebuebu stated that audience measurement technology would give advertisers greater confidence in placing adverts and enable broadcasters to demonstrate the true size and reach of their audiences nationwide.