The Federal Government has announced the nationwide launch of FreeTV, a subscription-free digital television platform, as part of Nigeria’s digital Switch-Over programme.
The initiative, unveiled by the Presidency, aims to expand access to quality television content while accelerating the country’s transition from analogue to digital broadcasting under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to an official statement, FreeTV will provide households across Nigeria with free access to digital television services, improved picture quality and a wide range of programming without monthly subscription fees.
The platform is expected to deliver over 100 channels, including national, regional and state broadcasters, covering news, sports, entertainment, education and children’s content, alongside dedicated Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo language channels.
The Presidency stated that the service will be delivered through satellite, terrestrial transmission and a dedicated mobile application, ensuring coverage across urban centres, rural communities and underserved areas.
It also clarified that Nigerians will not need to purchase new television sets, as existing TVs can operate with compatible DVB-T2 or DVB-S2 decoders, while many free-to-air devices are already supported.
The initiative is also positioned as a driver of economic growth within Nigeria’s creative and broadcast sectors, with planned regional production hubs in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Kano and Benin.
These hubs are expected to generate employment opportunities for content creators, technicians, editors and other media professionals while strengthening local content production.
Speaking on the project, Charles Ebuebu, director general of the National Broadcasting Commission, said FreeTV reflects the government’s commitment to digital inclusion and equitable access to information.
He noted that the platform would allow families to enjoy subscription-free television while expanding opportunities in the media industry.
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