The National Broadcasting Commission says Nigerians will no longer pay annual Digital Access Fees under the renewed Digital Switch Over project.

NBC’s director-general, Charles Ebuebu, disclosed this in an interview on Wednesday in Abuja.

Mr Ebuebu said viewers only need to purchase an approved decoder and satellite dish, which cost less than N20,000, to enjoy free television permanently.

“Previously, users paid an annual digital access fee of about N1,500, described as an administrative charge. The new system removes that annual fee. It provides free access to free-to-air television channels.

“Premium channels will be introduced later. Viewers who want those additional channels can access them through paid services. Nigerian content on free-to-air channels remains free to watch. Unlike Pay TV, this platform does not require monthly subscriptions for its basic service,” he said

Mr Ebuebu said approved decoders for the Freetv will cost less than N20,000, and authorised sales outlets will soon be announced.

He urged Nigerians to wait for official information on approved dealers for the DSO decoders, warning that unauthorised sellers are exploiting growing public demand.

He reiterated that people only need a free-to-air decoder and a satellite dish, rather than the old antenna system, to receive the DSO signal.

“Once the equipment is installed, viewers can access all available channels across the country without paying any subscription fees,” he stressed.

According to him, the NBC will soon publish the list of approved dealers, official prices, and locations where genuine decoder boxes and accessories can be purchased.

The NBC boss said the DSO project is designed not only to improve television broadcasting but also to stimulate economic growth by creating jobs, attracting investment, and opening up opportunities for businesses that support the broadcasting industry.

Mr Ebuebu noted that content producers and broadcasters stand to benefit significantly from the DSO platform’s nationwide reach.

Unlike the previous system, where many stations had limited regional audiences, he said the new platform will make their channels available to viewers across Nigeria.

He added that the introduction of audience measurement technology will provide scientific and reliable data on television viewership.

Mr Ebuebu added that audience measurement technology will give advertisers greater confidence in placing adverts and enable broadcasters to demonstrate the true size and reach of their audiences nationwide.

(NAN)