June 17, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the launch of FreeTV, a new national digital television platform designed to provide Nigerians with access to over 100 television channels without any monthly subscription fees.
According to government officials, the initiative is part of Nigeria’s ongoing Digital Switch-Over (DSO) programme aimed at expanding access to information, entertainment, education, and digital opportunities for millions of citizens across the country.
The platform is expected to offer a wide variety of channels, including news, sports, movies, music, children’s programmes, educational content, and indigenous language broadcasts.
Authorities stated that FreeTV will be accessible through satellite transmission, terrestrial broadcasting networks, and a dedicated mobile application, making it available to viewers in both urban and rural communities nationwide.
In a major relief for households, the government clarified that Nigerians will not be required to purchase new television sets to enjoy the service. Existing television sets can continue to operate with compatible DVB-T2 or DVB-S2 decoders, while users with compatible free-to-air decoders may not need any additional equipment.
Speaking ahead of the official launch, the Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Charles Ebuebu, described the initiative as a major step toward digital inclusion and economic empowerment.
According to him, FreeTV aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda by expanding access to information, creating economic opportunities, and ensuring that every Nigerian can benefit from the digital economy regardless of income level or location.
Beyond free television access, the project is expected to create thousands of jobs within Nigeria’s creative and broadcasting industries. The government revealed plans to establish regional production studios in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Kano, and Benin to support local content development and provide employment opportunities for producers, editors, camera operators, technicians, and other media professionals.
Meanwhile, authorities reaffirmed that Nigeria’s final transition from analogue to digital broadcasting remains scheduled for December 31, 2028, urging citizens to verify the compatibility of their decoders and prepare for the digital future.
The launch of FreeTV marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s broadcasting sector and could transform how millions of Nigerians access television content in the years ahead.
Stay with SUNTV Global Channel for more updates on technology, broadcasting, and national development.
