The Association for the Defense of the Nigerian Economy (ADNE) has dismissed allegations that MultiChoice unfairly increased its DStv subscription prices in Nigeria while reducing them in South Africa. The non-governmental organisation described the claims as misleading and lacking economic depth, urging Nigerians to consider actual price data and exchange rates before forming opinions.
In response to statements by civil society group Save the Consumers, which accused MultiChoice of implementing a 21% price hike in Nigeria while lowering South African prices by 38%, ADNE argued that the comparison failed to account for inflation, operational costs, and currency fluctuations in both countries.
ADNE’s research showed that South African subscribers currently pay 879 ZAR ($46.34 at an exchange rate of 18.97 ZAR/$1) for the DStv Premium package. Effective April 1, the price will rise to 979 ZAR ($53.82 at 18.19 ZAR/$1).
In contrast, Nigerian subscribers now pay ₦44,500 ($29.81 at ₦1,492.73/$1), up from ₦37,000 ($26.55 at ₦1,393.51/$1) before the adjustment. In 2023, the price was ₦29,500, which converted to $29.80 at ₦990/$1.
For DStv Compact Plus, ADNE revealed that South African subscribers paid 579 ZAR ($30.52) in 2024 and will soon pay 659 ZAR ($36.23). Meanwhile, Nigerians currently pay ₦30,000 ($20.10 at ₦1,492.73/$1), an increase from ₦25,000 ($17.94) in 2024 and ₦19,800 ($20) in 2023.
A similar pattern was observed in the Compact bouquet pricing. From April, South African subscribers will pay 479 ZAR ($26.33), up from 449 ZAR ($23.67) in 2024 and 449 ZAR ($24.63) in 2023. In Nigeria, Compact subscribers now pay ₦19,000 ($12.73), compared to ₦15,700 ($11.27) in 2024 and ₦12,500 ($12.63) in 2023.
ADNE acknowledged that Nigeria’s economic difficulties have made price hikes feel more burdensome, but it stressed that businesses are also grappling with rising operational costs and foreign exchange instability. It noted that local currency value significantly impacts pricing, which Save the Consumers failed to consider.
The organisation cautioned against misleading claims aimed at inciting public anger, stating that responsible discourse should be based on factual data. It warned that at a time when several multinational companies are leaving Nigeria, misinformation could further discourage investment in the country.
Melissa Enoch
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