FCCPC HALTS DSTV AND GOTV SUBSCRIPTION PRICE HIKE, ENSURING CONSUMER RELIEF
Abuja, Nigeria – February 28, 2025 – The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has intervened to halt the planned subscription price increase by MultiChoice Nigeria, the parent company of DStv and GOtv. The regulatory body cited concerns over consumer rights, market fairness, and economic impact as reasons for its decision.
In a statement released on Wednesday, FCCPC said it had instructed MultiChoice Nigeria to suspend its proposed price hike, pending a comprehensive review of its justification and compliance with Nigeria’s competition and consumer protection laws.
The statement, signed by FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman Babatunde Irukera, read: “We recognize the challenges of inflation and operational costs; however, businesses operating in Nigeria must ensure their pricing models align with fair market principles and do not exploit consumers. The Commission has directed MultiChoice to maintain its current pricing structure until a regulatory review is concluded.”
MultiChoice Nigeria had earlier announced an upward review of its subscription fees for DStv and GOtv packages, citing increased operational costs, currency depreciation, and inflationary pressures. The proposed price increase sparked widespread criticism from subscribers, consumer rights groups, and lawmakers, who argued that many Nigerians were already struggling with high living costs.
A consumer advocacy group, the Nigerian Subscribers Rights Association (NSRA), applauded FCCPC’s intervention, stating that frequent and arbitrary price hikes by MultiChoice have long burdened consumers. “This decision offers relief to millions of Nigerians who rely on these services for entertainment and information,” said NSRA President Chidi Okeke.
In response, MultiChoice Nigeria expressed its willingness to engage with regulators while defending the need for a price adjustment due to rising operational expenses. “We remain committed to providing quality entertainment to our subscribers, and we will continue discussions with the relevant authorities to ensure a fair and sustainable pricing structure,” the company said in a statement.
The FCCPC’s action is expected to have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s pay-TV industry and broader business regulations:
Consumer Relief: The halt prevents immediate financial strain on millions of subscribers who were preparing for higher costs.
Regulatory Scrutiny: The move signals increased government oversight on pricing policies in the telecommunications and entertainment sectors.
Precedent for Future Price Adjustments: Other companies may now be required to justify price hikes more rigorously before implementation.
FCCPC has announced plans to engage MultiChoice Nigeria in discussions regarding a fair pricing model that balances business sustainability with consumer protection.
Meanwhile, consumer groups are calling for the introduction of pay-per-view options to offer subscribers better value for money.
As the situation unfolds, Nigerians will be watching closely to see how regulatory intervention shapes the future of pay-TV pricing in the country.
