Rapid TV News

MultiChoice eyes Nigeria’s mobile TV market

Rebecca Hawkes ©RapidTVNews | 21-02-2012

Nigeria's growing mobile TV market is being closely monitored by MultiChoice, which has so far invested US$30 million (N4,71 billion) into pay-TV operations in Africa's most populous country.

South Africa's MultiChoice, which has been present in Nigeria for 18 years, also plans to invest $54.2 million in its country head office in Ikeja.

The ongoing investment is all part of the operator's commitment to develop content and stimulate the nation's broadcasting industry as well as local sports, according to John Ugbe, managing director, MultiChoice Nigeria.

"There is a lot of convergence as television is becoming smaller. We see a lot of growth in mobile television. The company recently launched the 'worker TV', which is set to hit the Nigerian market in two months," Ugbe told Business Day.

Supersport, the premium sports TV brand from MultiChoice, has reportedly also now invested over $200 million in Nigerian content, such as coverage of Nigerian football and the country's basketball league.

"In conjunction with MultiChoice Africa, we remain the only company airing the Nigerian Premier and Basketball League. With the local league on air, our hope is for young people to develop interest as the quality of football improves."

With its DStv pay-TV platform, MultiChoice now has over 90 diverse TV channels – including high definition (HD) ones - available to subscribers, with over 80 dealer offices across Nigeria.

Foluso Philips, chairman of Nigeria – South African Chamber of Commerce added: ''It is very clear that MultiChoice has made substantial investment in what they are involved in, which is commendable as this development would no doubt create jobs for youths in the country at the same time help ignite the country's economy for growth.''