DStv May Introduce Weekly Subscriptions In Nigeria 

Nigerians could soon enjoy weekly DStv subscription plans. MultiChoice, the parent company of DStv, is currently testing the short-term payment model in Uganda and plans to roll it out in Nigeria if the trial proves successful.

The initiative began seven weeks ago and aims to give customers more flexible payment options, especially as many African households grapple with economic pressures. MultiChoice Group CEO Calvo Mawela states that weekly subscription passes could function like prepaid airtime, offering convenience and affordability during tough times.

MultiChoice is also considering new ways to keep customers engaged, including customisable base packages that let users select only the channels they want. These ideas come as the company struggles with falling subscriber numbers and revenues.

The company’s recently released financial results for the year ending March 31, 2025, show a 9% drop in total revenue and a 34% decrease in operating profit. In the past two years, MultiChoice has lost nearly 3 million customers across Africa, with Nigeria accounting for the largest share, with 1.4 million subscribers gone since March 2023.

Inflation, which reached 23.71% in Nigeria as of April 2025, continues to erode consumer spending. This directly affected DStv Nigeria’s revenue, which fell from $355.93 million in 2024 to $197.74 million in 2025.

Despite these setbacks, the company’s digital platforms are growing. Services like DStv Internet, Showmax, and KingMakers have seen impressive double-digit increases in users and revenue, pointing to a shift in how viewers consume content.

Mawela acknowledged that technological changes, increasing piracy, and competition from streaming platforms are reshaping the TV industry. MultiChoice hopes adapting its pricing and product offerings will help it remain relevant in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

For many Nigerian families juggling multiple financial burdens, subscribing to DStv weekly could be a small but welcome change.

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Chinalurumogu Eze

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