Multichoice Group, the leading pay-TV operator in Africa, has announced a significant loss of 243,000 subscribers from its Nigerian operations, encompassing both DStv and GOtv services, between April and September 2024.
In its Interim Financial Results for the period ending September 30, 2024, the company attributed the sharp decline to Nigeria’s soaring inflation rates, exceeding 30%, driven by escalating food, electricity, and fuel costs, which have forced many customers to disconnect.
Earlier, the company’s March 2024 report already indicated an 18% drop in its Nigerian subscriber base. Across its broader African operations, Multichoice reported a further loss of 566,000 subscribers, with Zambia and Nigeria contributing significantly to this figure. Specifically, Zambia accounted for a reduction of 298,000 subscribers, while Nigeria’s share stood at 243,000, leaving minimal declines in other markets.
Reacting to the news, many Nigerian customers have voiced frustration and dissatisfaction with the service. Some subscribers took to social media to express their intent to leave the platform, citing high prices and unappealing content as primary reasons. On X (formerly Twitter), users like @AGUNviews, @Jaheim007, and @ribaduabubakar2 criticized the frequent price hikes and lack of diverse content, while others praised the availability of alternative streaming options that offer better value.
One subscriber remarked, “They will continue losing customers as internet-based streaming and smart TVs have made DStv unattractive.” Another user shared, “I stopped using DStv in 2022; the downfall of this company in Nigeria is inevitable if they don’t adapt.”
Calls for a pay-as-you-go model and reduced subscription costs have grown louder, with many subscribers pointing out that most viewers now only find value in the sports channels. The discontent reflects a broader shift toward online streaming services, which offer greater flexibility and affordability compared to traditional satellite TV options.
As customer complaints continue to pile up, Multichoice faces mounting pressure to innovate and respond to the evolving demands of the Nigerian market.
