• Eligible Showmax customers will continue to stream on DStv Stream on Compact until 31 May 2026
• Stay active on Stream and continue at N6,500 per month for 12 months – over 65% off standard pricing

Following the discontinuation of the Showmax service on 30 April 2026, MultiChoice has announced that eligible Showmax subscribers in Nigeria will receive trial access to DStv Stream Compact for a limited period, as part of the move to a single streaming home on DStv Stream.

After the trial period, qualifying customers can continue on DStv Stream Compact at a special price of N6,500 per month for 12 months, provided the subscription remains active throughout and payments are up to date.

The offer gives Showmax customers access to a significantly expanded content experience, including live TV, international series and movies, kids’ content and live sports via SuperSport, available on mobile devices and smart TVs.

How the trial access works

Eligible Showmax customers will receive trial access to DStv Stream Compact until the end of May. The offer and details on how to take up the offer will be communicated directly via the email address linked to their Showmax account.

After the trial period, customers can continue on DStv Stream Compact at N6,500 per month for 12 months, provided payments remain up to date.

The offer applies to Showmax customers who do not have an active DStv subscription and who subscribed directly to Showmax. It excludes existing DStv customers who already receive Showmax content as part of their package that is, who add Showmax to their DStv bill.

• Eligibility is confirmed via email sent to the Showmax account address
• Includes all Showmax plans, including Showmax Premier League
• Eligible customers receive free access until end May, then pay N6,500 per month for 12 months – a saving of over 65% compared to standard DStv Compact Stream pricing – as long as payments remain up to date.
• Standard pricing for DStv Stream Compact is from N19,000 per month

Showmax subscriptions will not migrate automatically. Customers who wish to continue watching will need to follow the simple sign-up process for DStv Stream shared via email, and create a new profile, all of which takes less than five minutes.

Customers who choose not to move to DStv Stream may request a refund for any unused portion of their Showmax subscription by sending an email to help@showmax.com, subject to standard terms and conditions.

Auto payments to Showmax will stop automatically once the service is discontinued.

The Showmax platform will be discontinued on 30 April 2026, with Showmax Originals continuing on DStv Stream.

Terms and conditions apply. Full eligibility details will be available on dstv.com, and any updates will be communicated directly to customers via email.

The company said eligible users will get free access to DStv Stream Compact from April 1 until the end of May. After that, they can continue at R99 ($5.90) a month for 12 months. The standard price is R299 ($17.83).

The offer is aimed at keeping viewers as Showmax closes on April 30. From that date, all content, including Showmax Originals, will sit on DStv Stream.

Subscribers must sign up for DStv Stream, create a new profile and follow instructions sent to their registered email. MultiChoice said the process takes less than five minutes, but it still requires users to opt in.

That step could affect how many people make the switch. The company has not shared current Showmax subscriber numbers, so it is not known how many users may drop off.

The R99 price is lower than several competitors. It sits below Netflix’s standard plan in South Africa and includes live sport through SuperSport, which other platforms do not offer. DStv Stream also combines live TV, films, series and children’s content in one app.

Still, the discount lasts for a year. After 12 months, the price returns to R299 a month. That jump could test how many customers stay on beyond the promotional period.

The offer comes with conditions. Subscribers must keep their accounts active and payments up to date throughout the 12 months. If payments lapse, the price resets to the standard rate.

The promotion is open to Showmax users who do not already have an active DStv subscription and who pay for Showmax directly. Existing DStv Compact, Compact Plus and Premium customers are excluded, as they already have access to Showmax content on DStv Stream at no extra cost.

Customers who decide not to move can request a refund for any unused portion of their Showmax subscription. Automatic payments will stop once the platform shuts down.

MultiChoice is also using the transition to push new and returning content on DStv Stream. These include the true-crime series The People vs VBS, available from 1 April, the final episode of Die Kantoor on 14 April, and a live broadcast of the Soweto Derby on 26 April.

These issues come from network congestion, limited infrastructure in many areas, and heavy reliance on mobile data that usually slows during peak hours.

But 2026 could make a difference. Nigeria is seeing a surge in fibre optic rollouts, a development that promises faster, more reliable internet across the country.

This development is not unique to Nigeria. Similar broadband expansion initiatives are gaining ground in other African markets such as Kenya and South Africa, where demand for stable, high-speed internet continues to rise very fast.

However, “faster internet” goes beyond just speed numbers. It points to a smoother online experience that supports everyday digital activities, from remote work to entertainment, and could fundamentally change how Nigerians connect and interact online.

Much of this progress is being driven by a mix of government programmes and private sector investment aimed at closing the country’s digital divide.

One of the key initiatives is Project BRIDGE, led by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. The project targets the deployment of 90,000 kilometres of fibre infrastructure nationwide, supported by significant funding, including a $500 million World Bank facility.

With broadband penetration estimated at 48% as of late 2025, Nigeria aims to reach 70% by 2030, with fibre playing a central role.

As these networks expand, internet-dependent activities are expected to become smoother, setting the stage for a more connected urban, suburban and, eventually, rural Nigeria.

Understanding the Fibre Rollout

Fibre-optic internet transmits data as pulses of light through thin strands of glass or plastic, allowing for extremely fast and reliable communication. Unlike older copper-based systems, fibre can carry large volumes of data over long distances without performance loss.

Compared to 4G or 5G mobile networks, fibre delivers more consistent speeds, with fewer disruptions from weather or congestion. Traditional broadband options such as DSL, by contrast, tend to max out at much lower speeds.

In Nigeria, the rollout is being driven by major telecom operators including MTN, Airtel and Glo, alongside infrastructure providers and newer entrants such as Boost ISP, Fibre Sonic and Amazon Kuiper.

Projects like the 90,000-kilometre Project BRIDGE, partly funded through a $500 million World Bank loan and expected to begin delivery in early 2026, are also crucial to expanding nationwide coverage.

Progress, however, is uneven. Urban centres like Lagos and Abuja are seeing faster deployment, while suburban and rural areas continue to lag due to logistical and cost challenges, a pattern common in many developing markets where cities are prioritised first.

What Faster Fibre Means for Streaming in 2026

Better and wider fibre availability could significantly improve streaming adoption in Nigeria. Platforms such as Netflix, YouTube and local services like Showmax would be able to deliver smooth HD and 4K content with minimal buffering, even during peak evening hours.

More reliable connections could also encourage live streaming of concerts, sports and other events, strengthening the creator economy and allowing Nigerian filmmakers and content creators to reach global audiences more easily.

This aligns with broader expectations for growth in Nigeria’s digital economy in 2026.

Homes with multiple connected devices would experience fewer slowdowns, as fibre’s higher bandwidth can support simultaneous usage.

Similar transitions in countries like India have led to a surge in digital content creation, and Nigeria could see a comparable rise in locally produced media that promotes culture and storytelling.

What Faster Fibre Means for Gaming in 2026

For gamers, the biggest advantage of fibre is lower latency, the delay between a player’s action and the game’s response. Fibre networks can reduce latency to milliseconds, replacing frustrating lag with smoother gameplay.

This is especially important for competitive multiplayer titles such as Call of Duty and Fortnite, where split-second reactions matter. It also opens the door to cloud gaming services that stream high-end games without requiring expensive hardware.

In Nigeria, improved connectivity could help grow esports communities, with more tournaments and online leagues emerging in cities like Lagos. Local game developers may also benefit, as faster uploads and easier collaboration make global partnerships more feasible.

As connections stabilise, more African streamers are likely to build audiences on platforms like Twitch, turning gaming into a viable career path.

Advantages of Fibre for Remote Work and Digital Productivity in 2026

Remote work is expanding rapidly in Nigeria, but unreliable internet often disrupts video meetings and file sharing. Fibre connectivity could provide the stability needed for uninterrupted Zoom or Microsoft Teams sessions, reducing the dropouts that frustrate professionals.

For creatives, developers and media workers, faster upload speeds mean large files can be sent in minutes rather than hours, making collaboration with international clients far more efficient.

This reliability could also increase participation in global freelancing platforms such as Upwork, drawing more Nigerians into remote jobs and reshaping work culture amid rising living costs in major cities.

Experiences in countries like the Philippines suggest that better connectivity boosts productivity, and in Nigeria, it may help retain local talent by making remote work viable even outside major hubs.

The Real Challenges Holding Fibre Back

Despite the optimism, rolling out fibre infrastructure is far from simple. High deployment costs, including trenching and securing rights-of-way, slow progress, particularly in densely populated areas.

Power supply is another challenge, as fibre equipment requires stable electricity, often necessitating costly backup systems. Maintenance is also a concern, with vandalism and theft leading to thousands of fibre cuts each year. MTN alone reported more than 9,200 fibre cuts in 2025.

Affordability is a barrier, especially for lower-income households, while last-mile connections to homes in rural or informal settlements are often unreliable. These challenges reflect broader issues faced by emerging markets trying to balance expansion with equitable access.

What to Expect Next: Is 2026 the Breakthrough Year?

In the short term, 2026 could bring visible improvements as the initial phases of Project BRIDGE begin rolling out from the first quarter of the year. Over time, the impact is expected to grow as networks mature and support more advanced digital services.

Fibre will also operate alongside other technologies. It will complement 5G for mobile connectivity and satellite options such as Starlink and Amazon Kuiper for hard-to-reach areas, creating a hybrid connectivity ecosystem.

Consumers are likely to benefit from increased competition among internet service providers, making it important to watch for transparent pricing, reliable service levels and bundled offerings. As seen in other markets, stronger infrastructure usually leads to better value and improved service quality.

Conclusion

Fibre rollout is a powerful enabler for Nigeria’s digital ambitions, especially the 2030 digital economy plan, promising smoother streaming, immersive gaming, and productive remote work.

But fibre is not an omnipotent solution; success is still based on other factors such as smart policies, fair pricing, and widespread access to truly unlock its potential.

In the bigger picture, this could propel Nigeria toward a thriving digital economy, blending local innovation with global connectivity, and making 2026 an important year for what is next.

Starting Monday, 22 December 2025, existing Showmax customers can log into the Baxi by Onafriq app, select and pay for any of Showmax plans including: Showmax Entertainment Mobile, Showmax Entertainment (All Devices), Showmax Premier League Mobile, Showmax Entertainment (All Devices) + Premier League Mobile, Showmax Entertainment Mobile + Premier League Mobile.

This update allows customers to complete their entire subscription process within the Baxi app, delivering a more efficient payment experience.

Alternatively, existing customers with verified mobile numbers can top up their Baxi by Onafriq app or through its Baxi POS agent device to load funds directly into their Showmax account. These funds can then be used to pay for a Showmax plan.

For new customers, subscribing is also seamless. After creating a Showmax account on their mobile device, they will receive an OTP via SMS or WhatsApp, which allows them to verify their mobile number and immediately return to the app to top up and activate their subscription.

Speaking on the announcement, Tope Oshunkeye, executive head of Marketing, West Africa, MultiChoice, said:

“With these new payment options from Baxi by Onafriq, we are making streaming on Showmax more accessible, allowing our customers to pay quickly and securely through a trusted financial service provider. This is a significant step forward in our mission to deliver world-class streaming experiences for our customers”.

“This launch is about making entertainment access seamless,” said Mxolisi Msutwana, managing director, Anglophone West Africa, Onafriq. “By automating the renewal process, we are not only providing greater convenience for customers but also helping to drive the adoption of digital payments across Nigeria.”

With more people turning to digital services, Showmax is doubling down on its commitment to make it affordable and effortless for customers to access and stream the stories they love.

By partnering with Baxi by Onafriq, a popular agent and digital payment network, Showmax is meeting subscribers where they already are.

In Nigeria, technology has changed how these moments happen. Families have moved from DVDs and cable TV to streaming platforms that offer easy access to both Nigerian and international movies and shows.

The idea is the same: spending time together, laughing, and making memories. What has changed is how stories are watched?

Today’s streaming services offer a strong mix of Nollywood Christmas movies, popular Hollywood titles, and children’s content. All you need is a stable internet connection and a subscription plan that fits your budget.

Top Choices for Family-Friendly Viewing

Netflix Nigeria

Netflix Nigeria provides several plans, from about ₦2,500 per month for the Mobile plan to ₦8,500 for the Premium plan. The Premium option allows Ultra HD viewing and supports up to four screens at the same time, which works well for larger families.

Netflix is always outstanding during Christmas because of its growing Nollywood collection and wide range of international movies and series.

Families can enjoy titles like A Naija Christmas, Netflix’s first Nigerian Christmas original, which blends comedy, romance, and family drama in a way that suits general audiences. There are also classic Hollywood Christmas movies and cartoons for children.

Netflix includes dedicated kids’ profiles with parental controls, helping parents manage what younger children can watch.

Although prices have increased in recent times, many families still prefer Netflix because of its wide content library and ease of use across different devices.

Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video costs around ₦2,300 per month in Nigeria and offers a seven-day free trial. This makes it one of the more affordable options in the market.

The platform has also been investing more in Nigerian content, with titles such as Christmas in Lagos and A Danfo Christmas showing its interest in local stories.

Prime Video is suitable for families because it combines affordability with good-quality content. Alongside Nigerian movies, it offers Amazon Originals, international blockbusters, and a range of family-friendly shows. One subscription allows streaming on multiple devices without extra charges.

Its X-Ray feature, which shows cast details and extra information when a movie is paused, can also be a fun and educational addition for curious viewers.

Showmax

Showmax focuses mainly on African content, with some international titles included. Subscription plans start from about ₦1,600 per month for the Mobile plan, while higher plans that include sports cost more.

For families that enjoy Nollywood, Showmax is a strong option. It features titles like School Run, its first Nigerian original, alongside many classic and recent local movies. One key advantage is its link with DStv.

DStv Premium subscribers get Showmax at no extra cost, while other DStv users can access it at a discounted rate.

Showmax also allows offline downloads, which is helpful for families dealing with unstable internet or high data costs. On the standard plan, two people can stream at the same time, making it suitable for couples or small families.

Other Good Options for Christmas

YouTube Premium

YouTube Premium has become a solid choice for family entertainment. The individual plan costs about ₦1,700 per month, while the family plan is around ₦2,800 for up to six people. Even after the price increase in April 2025, the family plan remains good value.

Beyond ad-free viewing, YouTube Premium gives families access to Nollywood movies, local creators, comedy skits, music, and educational content without interruptions.

Videos can also play in the background, and downloads are available for offline viewing, which is useful during travel or in areas with poor internet.

IbakaTV (Honourable Mention)

IbakaTV may not be as popular globally as Netflix or Prime Video, but it is a good option for families that prefer Nollywood content.

The platform offers a large collection of Nigerian movies and TV shows, covering drama, thrillers, and family-friendly titles.

Because it focuses on Nigerian cinema, IbakaTV sometimes provides access to local movies before they appear on bigger platforms. It is especially useful for families who want to stay connected to Nigerian culture or prefer mostly local films.

Conclusion

Choosing the right streaming service depends on your budget, viewing habits, and content preferences. For lower-cost options, Prime Video and Showmax Mobile stand out at around ₦2,300 and ₦1,600 per month.

Netflix is more expensive, but it offers a wider content library that may justify the price for some families. If your household already spends a lot of time on YouTube, the YouTube Premium family plan at ₦2,800 is also good value.

Families that mainly want Nigerian content may prefer Showmax or IbakaTV, while those looking for a mix of local and international titles may find Netflix or Prime Video more suitable.

In Nigeria, data costs are also important, so platforms that support offline downloads, such as Showmax and YouTube Premium, can help reduce expenses.

To keep everyone happy, mix Nigerian and international movies, balance long films with short comedies, and include cartoons or documentaries that suit all ages.

Streaming options in Nigeria continue to change as platforms adjust prices and content.

The best service is not always the most expensive one, but the one that fits your family’s needs, budget, and taste.

Gone are the days when satellite dishes and cable subscriptions were the only ways to access good shows.

Today, platforms like Netflix, Showmax, Prime Video, and YouTube are taking over the space. But to enjoy all that content seamlessly, you need the right gadgets, streaming devices are key.

Nigeria’s streaming market has grown rapidly in recent years. Better internet coverage and more affordable data plans mean many Nigerians stream content daily.

But choosing the right streaming device can be tricky. Some promise 4K quality but struggle with local internet speeds. Others have great features but don’t support local apps like DSTV Stream or Showmax.

This guide will help you navigate the options. We’ll cover what to look for in a streaming device and highlight five choices that work well in Nigerian homes, from budget-friendly options to premium devices.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Streaming Device

Internet Compatibility

The quality of your internet matters more than how fancy your gadget is. Most Nigerian homes use broadband (like Airtel, MTN, or Spectranet) or mobile hotspots. The best devices support both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi, keeping streaming stable even if multiple devices share your network.

If you stream mostly via mobile data, choose a device that works well with slower speeds. To stream in 4K without buffering, you ideally need at least 25Mbps, which not everyone has. A good streaming device should automatically adjust video quality depending on your internet speed.

App Support for Nigerian Users

Not every device supports every app. Before buying, check that your device supports the apps you use Netflix, YouTube, Showmax, Prime Video, and DSTV Stream are the most common. Some devices also allow access to apps like Disney+ and Apple TV+.

Also, check if the apps are pre-installed or need to be downloaded. The easier the setup, the better.

Performance Features That Matter

4K and HDR look impressive, but only if your TV supports them and your internet can handle it. For most Nigerians, full HD (1080p) is sufficient, it looks great and uses less data.

Storage is another consideration. Most streaming sticks have about 8GB, enough for 10–15 apps. If you want more apps, go for 16GB models. Don’t forget the remote, voice search and command can make finding shows much faster.

Price

Streaming devices in Nigeria range from around N50,000 to over N400,000. Cheaper devices often work well, so the question is whether premium options are worth the extra cost.

Also, consider the ecosystem you’re in. Apple users may prefer Apple TV, Android users might opt for Google devices, and Amazon fans may go for Fire TV.

Top Streaming Devices for Nigerian Homes in 2025

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max: Overall Best

Amazon’s Fire TV Stick 4K Max is powerful without being expensive. It has a quad-core processor and Wi-Fi 6, ensuring smooth streaming on Netflix or YouTube. It supports 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos.

The Alexa Voice Remote makes searching easy—just press the mic button and speak. It also controls power, volume, and quick access to popular apps.

For Nigerians, the Fire TV Stick 4K Max handles varying internet speeds well. If your connection drops, it automatically adjusts the picture so streaming continues without interruption. It also works with mobile hotspots.

Unique Upsides:

• Powerful processor for fast app launches
• Wi-Fi 6 support for smoother streaming
• 16GB storage for more apps
• Alexa voice control for easy navigation
• Works well with mobile hotspots

Price in Nigeria: N85,000 – N102,000
Subscription: Device itself requires no subscription; streaming services like Netflix, Showmax, or Prime Video charge separately.

Google Chromecast with Google TV: Best for Android Users

This Chromecast has a full Android TV interface and a remote. Google TV aggregates movies and shows from all your apps, making it easy to find content without switching between platforms.

Supports 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos, and works seamlessly with Google Assistant for voice control and smart home devices. Android users in Nigeria can also mirror their phones to the TV for sharing photos or presentations.

Unique Upsides:

• Aggregates content across apps
• Easy casting from Android devices
• Google Assistant integration
• Compact design
• Regular software updates

Price in Nigeria: N76,000 – N180,000
Subscription: Device has no subscription; streaming services charge separately.

Apple TV 4K: Premium Choice

Apple TV 4K is fast, smooth, and works perfectly with the Apple ecosystem. It has the A15 Bionic chip, supports 4K Dolby Vision and HDR10+, and offers Dolby Atmos sound.

AirPlay allows streaming from iPhone, iPad, or Mac. iTunes, Apple Music, and iCloud Photos are fully integrated. The Siri Remote is easy to use and supports voice search.

Unique Upsides:

• Fastest performance
• Seamless integration with Apple devices
• Acts as HomeKit hub
• Premium build and interface
• Long-term software support

Price in Nigeria: N218,000 – N436,800
Subscription: Device has no subscription; Apple TV+ or other services charge separately.

Xiaomi TV Stick 4K: Budget-Friendly Option

Xiaomi TV Stick 4K offers 4K streaming at a low price. It runs Android TV 11, giving access to Google Play Store and major streaming apps. Quad-core processor handles most apps well.

Supports 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos audio. The Bluetooth remote has Google Assistant and shortcut buttons for Netflix and Prime Video.

Unique Upsides:

• Affordable 4K streaming
• Full Android TV interface
• Compact and portable
• Chromecast built-in
• Decent performance for the price

Price in Nigeria: N84,000 – N140,000
Subscription: Device has no subscription; streaming services charge separately.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K: Simple and Reliable

Roku is known for ease of use. Streaming Stick 4K supports 4K HDR, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos. Long-range Wi-Fi ensures stable streaming, and the remote controls TV power and volume.

Roku Channel offers free, ad-supported movies and TV, a nice perk for budget-conscious users. Availability in Nigeria is limited but possible via Jiji and electronics stores.

Unique Upsides:

• Simple and intuitive interface
• Platform-neutral approach
• Long-range Wi-Fi
• Free content via Roku Channel
• Voice search and TV control

Price in Nigeria: N62,000 – N110,000
Subscription: Device itself has no subscription; streaming services charge separately.

Conclusion

Choosing the right streaming device in Nigeria depends on your budget, internet speed, and device ecosystem. For most users, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is the best mix of price, performance, and ease of use.

Android users may prefer Chromecast with Google TV, Apple fans should go for Apple TV 4K, while those on a budget can consider the Xiaomi TV Stick 4K. If simplicity is your priority, Roku is excellent, though it’s harder to find locally.

Streaming in Nigeria is booming, and with the right device, you can enjoy seamless entertainment at home. Pick one that fits your needs, set up your internet, and enjoy the shows.

The Group achieved ₦960 billion ($3.7 billion) in cost savings—far surpassing its interim target of ₦650 billion ($2.5 billion) and nearly doubling the ₦490 billion ($1.9 billion) saved in the previous fiscal year.

A disciplined approach to pricing helped offset subscriber losses, with inflationary price adjustments averaging 5.7% in South Africa and 31% in other African markets.

These efforts contributed to a 1% year-on-year organic revenue growth.

“Our performance showcases both the hurdles we’ve overcome and the resilience of our teams. While macroeconomic pressures and currency fluctuations have impacted results, our strategic execution, cost management, and investments in long-term growth put us in a strong position,” says Calvo Mawela, CEO of MultiChoice Group.

Adapting to industry shifts As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, MultiChoice Group has responded with innovative solutions.

New products like DStv Internet recorded an 85% increase in revenue, while KingMakers grew by 76% and DStv Stream by 48%. Showmax, the Group’s streaming service, saw active paying customers rise by 44% year-on-year.

Notably, the Group returned to a positive equity position, supported by cost savings, currency stabilization, and the sale of 60% of its insurance business (NMSIS) to Sanlam.

Financial Performance Overview

• Subscriber Base: The decline in active linear pay-TV subscribers has slowed, with the base now at 14.5 million—a drop of 8% compared to the previous year’s 11% decline.
• Revenues: Organic revenues rose by 1% year-on-year, primarily driven by pricing strategies and product expansion. However, reported revenues declined by 9% to ₦13.2 trillion ($50.8 billion) due to a subscription revenue dip and foreign exchange pressures.
• Trading Profit: Before adjustments, trading profit grew by 20% year-on-year. After factoring in Showmax’s trading losses, currency depreciation, and mergers and acquisitions, trading profit declined to ₦1.04 trillion ($4.0 billion).
• Adjusted Core Headline Earnings: The Group reported a loss of ₦208 billion ($0.8 billion), mainly due to reduced trading profits and hedging losses.
• Cash Flow & Liquidity: Free cash outflow stood at ₦130 billion ($0.5 billion), reflecting lower profitability and higher lease repayments. The Group closed the year with ₦1.3 trillion ($5.1 billion) in cash reserves and access to ₦790 billion ($3.0 billion) in borrowing facilities.

Operational Highlights

• Content Leadership: MultiChoice remains the leading producer of African original content, with its library expanding to 91,470 hours. Shows like Big Brother Mzansi and Big Brother Naija continue to attract strong viewership.
• Sports Excellence: SuperSport broadcast 47,839 hours of live sports, including major tournaments like the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and EURO 2024.
• School Sports Innovation: SuperSport Schools experienced 46% growth in registered users, reaching 1.2 million.

Business Segment Updates

• MultiChoice Nigeria focused on customer retention, partnerships with Capitec, MTN, and PEP, and improved customer experience.
• MultiChoice Africa implemented inflation-based price increases and piloted weekly subscriptions in Uganda for affordability.
• Showmax continued its expansion, despite slower subscriber growth, delivering a 44% increase in paying users.
• Irdeto grew revenue by 8%, strengthening security solutions across multiple sectors.
• KingMakers saw strong growth in online sports betting, particularly BetKing Nigeria, while SuperSportBet gained traction in South Africa.
• Moment, MultiChoice’s fintech solution, processed $635 million in transactions, representing a sevenfold increase year-on-year.

Future Outlook MultiChoice Group remains committed to a sustainable long-term strategy. In the coming year, it aims to:

• Stabilize revenue in video businesses while driving growth in entertainment, fintech, and insurance.
• Optimize operations to protect profitability and cash flows.
• Advance partnerships with Canal+ to unlock long-term strategic benefits.

A new ₦520 billion ($2.0 billion) cost-saving target has been set for FY26, aiming to reshape the business for shifting market conditions.

With these measures, MultiChoice Nigeria aims to strengthen profitability, stabilize operations across Africa, and refine Showmax’s performance.

The Group said it is determined to remain Africa’s premier entertainment provider—one that evolves with consumer habits and industry trends.

Through the partnership, MTN aims to enhance digital content accessibility and cater to the evolving preferences of African audiences.

“We see a unique opportunity to transform video consumption in Africa with high-quality, accessible, and relevant content,” said Selorm Adadevoh, group chief commercial officer at MTN Group.

“This partnership enables us to leverage cutting-edge technology and deep customer insights to enhance entertainment experiences and drive digital inclusion.”

With the new streaming platform, MTN enters the streaming market in competition with streaming giants like Netflix, Showmax, Multichoice, and Prime Video.

By leveraging Synamedia’s advanced cloud-based technologies, the service will deliver linear television and video-on-demand content.

It is designed to support various monetisation models, including subscriptions, ad-supported content, and free streaming channels with targeted advertising.

The streaming service will offer locally adapted content based on a curated content strategy.

Each market will benefit from content curated to reflect local cultures, languages, and viewing habits, ensuring that viewers across the continent resonate with its offerings.

“Thanks to MTN’s leadership and innovation, smartphone owners across Africa will be able to enjoy innovative linear TV and on-demand video,” Paul Segre, Synamedia, CEO, said.

“By taking advantage of the breadth of our integrated, cloud-based portfolio to quickly deploy new services at scale, MTN will be able to create a groundbreaking set of offerings for customers and viewers that will drive new revenues.”

Founded in 2018, The Power 50 shines a spotlight on those who are transforming financial services for the better and delivers ongoing support and development for participants.

Bringing together a diverse yet interconnected community, the Payments Power 50 will serve as a reminder of the significant strides being made in the payments space.

From established financial giants to rising fintech stars, the list will also include well-known influencers whose insights and contributions continue to inspire and challenge the industry.

Since its launch in 2009, Verve has had a spectacular trajectory against daunting odds, carving an impressive niche for itself as Africa’s first world-standard EMV chip and PIN payments card, starting from Nigeria and expanding its issuance and acceptance across over 25 African Countries.

Verve Payment Cards in Nigeria, Africa’s largest consumer market and its pioneer country of issuance have, to date, surpassed 70 million issued payment cards.

Over the last few years, Verve has grown to become the payment card of choice across various tiers of banking service and particularly within the burgeoning fintech/neobank space in Nigeria.

This growth has been driven by significant strategic partnerships across commercial and microfinance banking spheres, as well as fintechs, OFIs, and the public sector supported by sustained innovation and demonstrated understanding of the requirements of its local markets.

As Africa’s premier and leading domestic payment cards scheme, Verve remains focused on addressing peculiar market challenges in Africa by providing secure and cost-effective payment options for individuals and businesses to exchange value, offering both virtual and physical cards that facilitate payment for an increasing number of international services in local currency.

In the last three years, Verve has made significant progress in this regard, having achieved merchant acceptance with platforms such as Google, Spotify, Netflix, Showmax, Amazon Prime, Facebook, Microsoft, Uber, and Flywire, to mention a few, underscoring a strong resolve to continue to drive relevant partnerships that provide its users in Africa with convenient opportunities to access global services in local denominations.

“We are thoroughly delighted at Verve International and Interswitch with this global recognition on the Payments Power 50 list for 2025, as we continue to consolidate our delivery of global-standard payment solutions essentially tailored to economic and operational realities of the markets where we play across Africa, whilst leveraging value-adding partnerships that ensure we scale our impact and turbo-charge financial inclusion on the African continent. We are grateful to all our customers and partners, and indeed all our colleagues at Verve and Interswitch whose passion and consistent hard work have invariably facilitated global acclaim….” Stated Vincent Ogbunude, managing director for Payment Cards and Tokens at Interswitch and CEO for Verve International.

“Each year, The Power 50 celebrates the standout talent within the fintech community, showcasing ground-breaking companies and influential leaders from across the globe,” says Jason Williams, CEO of The Power 50. “Earning a place on The Power 50 is a testament to the impact individuals and businesses are making in shaping the future of fintech. It also serves as a trusted benchmark for excellence in the industry.”

It would be recalled that Interswitch Group also achieved recognition in the 2022 Global Fintech Power-50, in its 20th anniversary year.

The Payments Power 50 will be featured on the website, with honourees benefiting from exclusive content opportunities, networking events, and year-round industry engagement.

Members of this 2025 inaugural cohort of The Payments Power-50 will be celebrated at the Payments Power 50 Launch Party in London at the Blue Marlin Ibiza on Wednesday, March 26, powered by The Power 50, Pay360, CCGroup, and Paymentology.

• Limited-time-only deal on Showmax General Entertainment Mobile and All Devices plans
• New customers get opportunity to subscribe to Showmax at the most affordable price

Showmax, Africa’s leading streaming service, is making premium entertainment more accessible and affordable for Nigerians with its Showmax Shikini Season – a limited-time-only deal on its General Entertainment (GE) Mobile and All Devices plans.

From 28 February to 31 March 2025, new and returning subscribers can access Showmax GE Mobile for ₦1 000 instead of ₦1 600, while Showmax All Devices will be available for ₦2 000 instead of ₦3 500.

This deal will offer customers the chance to enjoy the stories they love on Showmax mobile or multiple screens at the most budget-friendly price yet.

“We know that affordability is a key concern for many Nigerians, and we want to ensure that access to first-class streaming entertainment remains within reach,” says Tope Oshunkeye, executive head of Marketing, West Africa, MultiChoice Nigeria.

“Showmax Shikini Season is our way of ensuring more Nigerians can enjoy never been seen before content without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a new or returning subscriber, this is the perfect opportunity to dive into our diverse content library at an unbeatable price,” he added.

The deal follows Showmax’s one-year anniversary relaunch in partnership with Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky, which introduced a complete rebrand, an upgrade to Comcast’s Peacock platform, and a stronger content slate.

Notably, Showmax recorded a 50% year-on-year increase in paying subscribers as of September 2024, reflecting MultiChoice’s continued investment in establishing it as Africa’s leading streaming platform.

This March, subscribers can enjoy an extensive catalogue of entertainment featuring Showmax Nigerian Originals including epic Yoruba series Between Worlds (premieres 6 March) and Kabiyesi, new episodes of Under the Influence and fan-favourite dramas Cheta M S2 and Wura S3. The local content slate also includes the record-breaking Season 3 of The Real Housewives of Lagos and other fresh Africa Magic series.

For lovers of top-tier international content, Showmax will be streaming Godzilla X Kong: The New Empire and Venom: The Last Dance and Despicable Me 4 (three of the 10 biggest blockbusters of 2024); It Ends With Us (Google’s sixth most searched movie of 2024) as well as Emmy nominees Gangs of London and The Righteous Gemstones. Also available on Showmax is Season 3 of the Emmy-winning series The White Lotus, plus Suits LA S1, Power Book II: Ghost, Love Island and Yellowjackets.

To take advantage of the Showmax Shikini Season deal, eligible customers can

1. Visit Showmax Deals
2. Choose preferred plan:

• Showmax GE Mobile – ₦1 000
• Showmax GE All Devices – ₦2 000

1. Sign up or log in to your Showmax account.
2. Proceed to payment using your Mastercard or Visa card.

Customers can also purchase a voucher from Showmax sales agents across the country.

This limited-time-only deal is available from 28 February to 31 March 2025.