Nigeria Launches FreeTV Nationwide Subscription-Free Digital Television Platform
The initiative is positioned as a key component of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises digital inclusion, job creation, local content development, and broader access to opportunity through technology.
The Presidency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has announced the upcoming launch of FreeTV, a nationwide subscription-free digital television platform scheduled for 17 June 2026, as part of the country’s Digital Switch-Over programme.
According to an official statement issued by the Presidency on 16 June 2026, FreeTV will provide households across Nigeria with access to free digital television services, improved picture quality, and a wide range of programming without monthly subscription fees. The initiative is positioned as a key component of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises digital inclusion, job creation, local content development, and broader access to opportunity through technology.
The statement explained that FreeTV is designed to accelerate Nigeria’s transition from analogue to digital broadcasting and ensure that no citizen is left behind during the shift. It noted that the platform will offer over 100 channels, including national, regional, and state broadcasters, covering news, sports, entertainment, educational content, and children’s programming, alongside dedicated Yoruba, Hausa, and Igbo language channels.
The Presidency further stated that the service will be accessible via satellite, terrestrial transmission, and a dedicated mobile application, enabling coverage across urban, rural, and underserved communities. It also clarified that Nigerians will not need to purchase new television sets, as existing TVs can be used with compatible DVB-T2 or DVB-S2 decoders, while those with free-to-air decoders may already be eligible.
The statement highlighted that the initiative also aims to stimulate Nigeria’s creative and broadcast industries through the development of regional production hubs in cities including Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Kano, and Benin, creating new opportunities for content creators, technicians, and media professionals.
Speaking on the project, the Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission, Mr. Charles Ebuebu, said FreeTV reflects the government’s commitment to expanding access to information and ensuring equitable participation in the digital economy. He added that the platform will enable families across the country to enjoy quality television content without subscription costs, while supporting growth in local content production and employment in the media sector.
The final analogue switch-off is scheduled for 31 December 2028, with citizens encouraged to confirm decoder compatibility and begin preparing for the transition through the FreeTV platform and NBC channels.
For further information, the Presidency directed citizens to visit the official FreeTV website or contact the National Broadcasting Commission via its designated support channels.
