Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about getting started with FreeTV, your decoder, the mobile app and troubleshooting.
GENERAL FAQs
What is FreeTV?
FreeTV is Nigeria's national digital television platform available via satellite, terrestrial and mobile app, delivering 100+ channels at no monthly cost.
How does FreeTV work?
FreeTV works through satellite and terrestrial broadcasting using compatible DVB-T2 or DVB-S2 decoders. Users can also access content through the FreeTV mobile app.
Is FreeTV free?
Yes. FreeTV is completely free-to-air and does not require a monthly subscription.
Do I pay monthly subscription fees?
No. FreeTV offers over 100 national, regional and state channels without monthly subscription fees.
How many channels does FreeTV have?
FreeTV launches with over 100 channels, with more channels expected to be added over time.
What type of channels are available on FreeTV?
FreeTV offers sports, entertainment, movies, news, educational programmes, children's channels and regional language channels.
Does FreeTV work in rural areas?
Yes. FreeTV uses satellite technology that reaches remote and rural communities across Nigeria.
Will the FreeTV launch cover all 36 states?
Yes. FreeTV satellite coverage reaches all 36 states from launch day.
Will FreeTV create jobs?
Yes. The project is expected to create direct and indirect jobs in installation, production, studio operations, customer support and related services.
What are the benefits of switching to FreeTV?
Benefits include access to 100+ channels, better picture quality, no monthly fees, regional language content and mobile viewing access.
ACCESS & EQUIPMENT FAQs
Do I need a smart TV to use FreeTV?
No. Any TV with AV input can work with a compatible decoder.
Will I need a new TV to watch FreeTV?
No. You only need a compatible decoder connected to your existing television.
Can I use my existing decoder?
Yes. Standard DVB-T2 or DVB-S2 decoders already in use for free-to-air services will work with FreeTV.
What should I do to prepare for FreeTV?
Users should confirm that their decoder supports DVB-T2 or DVB-S2 standards.
How do I know if my decoder is compatible?
Check the decoder label for DVB-T2 or DVB-S2 compatibility.
How do I point my antenna correctly?
Turn your external antenna to face the transmission site in your launch state.
MOBILE APP FAQs
Is the FreeTV app free?
Yes. The FreeTV app is free to download from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
How much data does the FreeTV app use?
One hour of streaming uses approximately 300–500MB of data, depending on streaming quality.
Can I use FreeTV without internet or Wi-Fi?
Yes. The television service works through satellite and terrestrial broadcasting without internet. However, the mobile app requires internet or data.
DECODER & INSTALLATION FAQs
Where can I buy a FreeTV decoder?
Please call Alpha Brothers on 08034065265.
How do I activate my FreeTV decoder?
FreeTV is now a Free-To-Air service. No activation is needed.
How long does activation take?
There is no wait time because FreeTV is now Free-To-Air.
How do I find my Box ID/Unique ID?
UIDs will no longer be required once encryption is taken down.
Why is my decoder freezing and how can I improve signal quality?
Contact an installer.
TROUBLESHOOTING FAQs
Why am I seeing “No Signal”?
This is usually caused by dish or antenna misalignment. For satellite dishes, please contact an installer to check the dish position.
Why are some channels missing?
Please check the channels currently available and perform a blind scan.
How do I rescan channels?
Decoder scan settings vary because customers may use different FTA boxes. For FreeTV-branded decoders, go to Settings, navigate to Updates and select Reset to Factory Default.
Why is my decoder freezing?
Please contact an installer.
How can I improve signal quality?
Please contact an installer.
CUSTOMER SUPPORT FAQs
Is there a customer care number?
Yes. FreeTV customer care can be reached on 07003887277.
What should I do if my decoder stops working or I have signal problems?
Users are advised to contact the FreeTV National Call Centre for certified technician support and dealer information.
Where can I get official information about FreeTV?
Official information is available through NBC offices, the FreeTV website, verified NBC social media pages and the FreeTV call centre.
Still need help?
Our support team is ready to assist with any other questions.