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DSTV, GOtv & Startimes Platform in Nigeria – Complete Guide
DSTV • GOtv • Startimes • Cable TV • Nigeria

DSTV, GOtv & Startimes Platform in Nigeria – Complete Guide

Complete guide to DSTV, GOtv and Startimes platforms in Nigeria. Compare packages, prices, channels, decoder costs, and online payment methods. Find the best cable TV subscription for your needs.

4,500+ words • 18 min read • Cable TV Guide
18 min read By Fujest Team Cable TV
DSTV GOtv Startimes Cable TV Subscription Nigeria Bill Payment Fujest

Cable television has become an essential part of daily life for millions of Nigerians. Whether it is for news, entertainment, sports, or educational content, having access to quality TV programming is a necessity for many households. In Nigeria, the three dominant players in the pay-TV market are DSTV, GOtv, and Startimes. Each platform offers a range of packages designed to cater to different budgets and viewing preferences.

This comprehensive guide provides a complete overview of the DSTV, GOtv, and Startimes platforms in Nigeria. We compare packages, prices, channel offerings, decoder costs, and online payment methods. Whether you are a new subscriber looking to choose a platform or an existing customer wanting to switch packages, this guide has everything you need to make an informed decision.

For other bill payment and VTU guides, check out our articles on buying 9mobile data online, buying Glo data online, and YEDC bill payment online.

Overview of Pay-TV Platforms in Nigeria

Nigeria's pay-TV market is served by three main operators, each with its own strengths and target audience:

  • DSTV: Owned by MultiChoice (now a CANAL+ company), DSTV is the premium pay-TV service in Africa, offering the widest range of channels, including exclusive sports content from SuperSport[reference:0]. DSTV serves more than 21 million subscribers across the continent[reference:1].
  • GOtv: Also owned by MultiChoice, GOtv is the more affordable terrestrial digital TV service that serves as a lower-cost alternative to DSTV[reference:2]. It uses DVB-T2 technology for clear digital reception[reference:3].
  • Startimes: A Chinese-owned pay-TV provider, Startimes has positioned itself as a budget-friendly alternative to DSTV, offering affordable packages that appeal to low-income earners[reference:4]. It is known for its competitive pricing and growing channel lineup[reference:5].

DSTV Nigeria – Packages, Prices and Channels

DSTV is the most established and widely recognized pay-TV brand in Nigeria. It offers six subscription tiers with localised names that reflect MultiChoice Nigeria's deliberate localisation strategy[reference:6].

DSTV packages and prices (current):

Package Channels HD Channels Monthly Price (₦) Best For
Premium 160+ 38 44,500 Premium sports and movies – all SuperSport channels[reference:7][reference:8]
Compact Plus 145+ 30 30,000 Most sports and entertainment channels[reference:9][reference:10]
Compact 130+ 20 19,000 Popular entertainment and sports[reference:11][reference:12]
Confam 105+ 10 11,000 Family entertainment[reference:13][reference:14]
Yanga 85+ 7 6,000 Budget-friendly entertainment[reference:15][reference:16]
Padi 45+ 1 4,400 Entry-level viewing – cheapest DSTV plan[reference:17][reference:18]

Key features of DSTV:

  • DStv Stream: Customers can now enjoy DStv without a dish or installation, giving them more choice in how and where they watch[reference:19]. DStv Stream Compact is available from ₦19,000 per month[reference:20].
  • SuperSport: Exclusive access to all major sports events, including the FIFA World Cup, English Premier League, and more[reference:21].
  • Movie Channels: Premium movie channels including M-Net, M-Net Movies Premiere, Action+, and Smile[reference:22].
  • International News: CNN, BBC News, Sky News, Al Jazeera English[reference:23].
  • Promotional Offers: MultiChoice has introduced special offers, including a ₦15,000 bundle for new DStv customers that includes an HD decoder, dish kit, and one-month DStv Yanga subscription[reference:24][reference:25].
DSTV Pro Tip: DStv subscription prices remained unchanged in 2026, a change from the usual annual price adjustments[reference:26]. However, prices are subject to change based on regulatory and operational factors. Always check the official DStv website for the most current pricing.

GOtv Nigeria – Packages, Prices and Channels

GOtv is MultiChoice's terrestrial digital TV service, offering a more affordable alternative to DSTV. It uses a decoder and an indoor antenna (GOtenna) to receive signals, eliminating the need for a satellite dish. GOtv is the fastest growing pay-TV in Nigeria, with packages that have pushed other providers to offer cheaper plans[reference:27].

GOtv packages and prices (current):

Package Channels Monthly Price (₦) Quarterly (₦) Annual (₦) Best For
Supa Plus 85+ 16,800 – – Premium GOtv experience[reference:28]
Supa 80+ 11,400 – – High-quality entertainment[reference:29]
Max 75+ 8,500 – – Popular entertainment and sports[reference:30]
Jolli 65+ 5,800 – – Family entertainment[reference:31]
Jinja 45+ 3,900 – – Light entertainment + telenovelas[reference:32]
Smallie 35+ 1,900 5,100 15,000 Cheapest entry into pay-TV[reference:33][reference:34]
Lite 18 410 1,080 3,180 Most affordable GOtv package[reference:35]

Key features of GOtv:

  • Smallie highlights: Africa Magic Family, NTA, AIT, Wazobia Max, Galaxy TV, Cartoon Network, Trace Naija, SuperSport Blitz[reference:36].
  • Jinja adds: Africa Magic Yoruba/Hausa/Igbo, Telemundo, Star Life, SuperSport Variety 4, Zee World, M-Net Action[reference:37].
  • Lite package: 18 channels including Afro Music Pop, Al Jazeera, e.TV, AIT, Channels TV, Wazobia TV, and NTAi[reference:38].
  • Decoder cost: A standard GOtv Starter Kit (decoder + GOtenna + 1-month GOtv Max subscription) sells for approximately ₦9,100[reference:39].
  • Promotional offer: New GOtv customers can get a decoder, antenna, and one-month GOtv Jolli subscription for ₦15,000[reference:40].
GOtv Pro Tip: GOtv Lite is the most affordable pay-TV package in Nigeria at just ₦410 per month – perfect for budget-conscious viewers who still want access to local and international channels[reference:41]. Multi-month payments (quarterly and annual) offer additional savings.

Startimes Nigeria – Packages, Prices and Channels

Startimes is a Chinese-owned pay-TV provider that has gained significant popularity in Nigeria due to its affordable pricing and growing channel lineup. It offers both Direct-to-Home (DTH) satellite and Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) services, catering to different installation preferences[reference:42].

Startimes packages and prices (current):

Package Channels Monthly Price (₦) Best For
Nova 26-34 900 – 1,700 Basic channel access – cheapest Startimes plan[reference:43][reference:44]
Basic 40-83 1,300 – 3,000 Family entertainment with wider selection[reference:45][reference:46]
Classic 104+ 4,500 Premium channels including Fox News, ESPN 2, Bollywood HD[reference:47]

Decoder prices (hardware):

  • DTH (Satellite): Decoder + Dish + Accessories: ₦28,900; Decoder Only: ₦8,900[reference:48]
  • DTT (Terrestrial): Decoder + Antenna + Accessories: ₦13,900; Decoder Only: ₦7,900[reference:49]

Key features of Startimes:

  • Nova highlights: AIT, Channels TV, Galaxy TV, NTA Sports 24, TVC, Wazobia TV[reference:50].
  • Basic adds: BBC World News, Aljazeera, Nickelodeon, National Geographic Wild, Fox Life, ESPN, AIT, Toonami[reference:51].
  • Classic adds: Fox News, ESPN 2, Bollywood HD, CBEEBIES, ZEE One[reference:52].
  • World Cup coverage: Startimes broadcasts all 104 FIFA World Cup matches on dedicated channels ST Sports Life and ST World Football[reference:53].
  • Promotional offer: Startimes has slashed decoder prices for the World Cup, making premium football entertainment more affordable[reference:54].
Startimes Pro Tip: Startimes has seriously upgraded its offerings – the Nova package at ₦900/month gives you African Magic and Cartoon Network, while the Classic package at ₦4,500 gives you SuperSport, premium movies, and everything[reference:55]. Decoders cost under ₦10,000[reference:56].

Comparison of DSTV, GOtv and Startimes

To help you choose the best platform for your needs, here is a side-by-side comparison of DSTV, GOtv, and Startimes:

Feature DSTV GOtv Startimes
Cheapest Monthly Plan ₦4,400 (Padi)[reference:57] ₦410 (Lite)[reference:58] ₦900 (Nova)[reference:59]
Most Expensive Monthly Plan ₦44,500 (Premium)[reference:60] ₦16,800 (Supa Plus)[reference:61] ₦4,500 (Classic)[reference:62]
Technology Satellite / Streaming[reference:63] Terrestrial (DVB-T2)[reference:64] Satellite (DTH) / Terrestrial (DTT)[reference:65]
SuperSport Sports Yes – all channels[reference:66] Yes – limited channels[reference:67] Yes – via ESPN / SuperSport equivalent[reference:68][reference:69]
Streaming Option DStv Stream[reference:70] Limited Limited
Decoder + Setup Cost Promo: ₦15,000[reference:71] ~₦9,100[reference:72] DTH: ₦28,900 / DTT: ₦13,900[reference:73]
Best For Premium sports and movies Affordable family entertainment Budget-conscious viewers

How to Pay for DSTV, GOtv and Startimes Online

All three platforms offer multiple convenient ways to pay for your subscription online. Here are the most common methods:

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Official Mobile Apps

• MyDStv App: Manage your DStv subscription, pay bills, and upgrade packages.
• MyGOtv App: Pay your GOtv subscription and manage your account.
• StarTimes ON App: Subscribe and manage your StarTimes account.

Google Play / App Store
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Official Websites

• DStv: www.dstv.com
• GOtv: www.gotvafrica.com
• StarTimes: www.startimes.com.ng
Visit the website, log in, and pay with your debit card.

24/7 Access
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Bank Mobile Apps / USSD

Most Nigerian banks allow TV subscription payments through their mobile apps and USSD codes. Examples include GTBank (*737#), Access Bank (*901#), First Bank (*894#), UBA (*919#), and Zenith (*966#).

Various Banks
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Payment Apps (Kuda, OPay, etc.)

Apps like Kuda[reference:74], OPay, PalmPay, and Moniepoint allow you to pay for DStv, GOtv, and StarTimes subscriptions directly from your wallet. On Kuda, tap Pay → Pay A Bill → TV → choose your provider and enter your smart card number[reference:75].

Instant Activation
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Quickteller

Visit www.quickteller.com/dstv to pay for DStv, GOtv, and Startimes subscriptions. Enter your smart card number, select your bouquet, and pay with your debit card[reference:76]. You can also use the Quickteller USSD code – *322# for Airtel, MTN and 9mobile subscribers or *805# for Glo subscribers[reference:77].

Quickteller.com
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VTU Platforms (Fujest, etc.)

VTU platforms like Fujest offer TV subscription payments alongside airtime, data, and electricity bills. Simply select your provider (DStv, GOtv, or Startimes), enter your smart card number, choose your package, and pay[reference:78].

One-stop solution

General Steps to Pay for Cable TV Online

  1. Have your smart card number ready: Your smart card number is a unique identifier for your decoder. For DStv and GOtv, it is usually found on a sticker on the decoder or on your subscription receipt. For Startimes, it is your decoder serial number or account number.
  2. Choose your payment platform: Select from the options above – official app, website, bank app, payment app, Quickteller, or VTU platform.
  3. Select your provider and package: Choose DStv, GOtv, or Startimes, and select the package you want to subscribe to.
  4. Enter your smart card number: Carefully enter your smart card number to ensure your payment is applied to the correct account.
  5. Make payment: Complete the payment using your debit card, bank transfer, or wallet balance.
  6. Confirm activation: Your subscription should be active within minutes. For DStv and GOtv, you may need to refresh your decoder by turning it off and on or waiting for the signal update[reference:79].
Payment Pro Tip: Always double-check your smart card number before making payment. A single digit error can send your subscription to someone else's decoder. Save your smart card number on your phone for quick reference.

Tips for Choosing the Right Cable TV Platform

  • Consider your budget: If you are on a tight budget, GOtv Lite (₦410/month) or Startimes Nova (₦900/month) are excellent entry points. DStv Padi (₦4,400/month) is the cheapest DStv option.
  • Think about your viewing preferences: If you are a sports fan, DStv Premium offers the most comprehensive SuperSport coverage. Startimes Classic also offers sports channels like ESPN and ESPN 2.
  • Check channel availability: Each platform has different channel line-ups. Check the official websites to see which channels are available on each package.
  • Consider installation costs: DStv requires a satellite dish installation, while GOtv uses a terrestrial antenna. Startimes offers both satellite (DTH) and terrestrial (DTT) options. Factor in the one-time hardware cost when making your decision.
  • Look for promotional offers: All three platforms frequently run promotional offers – especially during major events like the FIFA World Cup. New customers can often get discounted decoder bundles[reference:80][reference:81].
  • Think about streaming: If you prefer to watch on your phone or laptop without a dish, DStv Stream is a great option[reference:82].

Frequently Asked Questions About DSTV, GOtv and Startimes

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which is cheaper – DSTV, GOtv or Startimes?
Startimes is generally the cheapest, with the Nova package starting at ₦900/month[reference:83]. GOtv Lite is even cheaper at ₦410/month[reference:84]. DStv is the most premium and expensive, with the Padi package starting at ₦4,400/month[reference:85].
Q: Which platform has the best sports channels?
DSTV has the best sports coverage with all SuperSport channels available on the Premium package[reference:86]. GOtv also has some SuperSport channels[reference:87], and Startimes offers ESPN and ESPN 2 on its Classic package[reference:88].
Q: What is the cheapest DSTV package?
The cheapest DSTV package is Padi at ₦4,400 per month, offering 45+ channels including 1 HD channel[reference:89][reference:90].
Q: What is the cheapest GOtv package?
The cheapest GOtv package is Lite at ₦410 per month, offering 18 channels[reference:91]. The next cheapest is Smallie at ₦1,900/month[reference:92].
Q: What is the cheapest Startimes package?
The cheapest Startimes package is Nova at ₦900 per month, offering 26-34 channels[reference:93][reference:94].
Q: How do I pay for my DSTV subscription online?
You can pay for DSTV online through the MyDStv app, the DStv website, bank mobile apps, payment apps like Kuda[reference:95], Quickteller[reference:96], or VTU platforms like Fujest. You will need your 11-digit smart card number.
Q: How do I pay for my GOtv subscription online?
You can pay for GOtv online through the MyGOtv app, the GOtv website, bank mobile apps, payment apps like Kuda[reference:97], Quickteller, or VTU platforms like Fujest. You will need your IUC number (found on a red label under your decoder)[reference:98].
Q: How do I pay for my Startimes subscription online?
You can pay for Startimes online through the StarTimes ON app, the StarTimes website, bank mobile apps, payment apps like Kuda[reference:99], Quickteller, or VTU platforms like Fujest. You will need your decoder serial number or account number.
Q: What is the DSTV promo for new customers?
New DStv customers can purchase an HD decoder, dish kit, and one-month DStv Yanga subscription for ₦15,000[reference:100][reference:101]. This promo includes a free one-month subscription[reference:102].
Q: What is the GOtv promo for new customers?
New GOtv customers can get a GOtv decoder, antenna, and one-month GOtv Jolli subscription for ₦15,000[reference:103].
Q: Does DSTV have a streaming-only option?
Yes. DStv Stream allows customers to watch DStv without a dish or installation[reference:104]. DStv Stream Compact is available from ₦19,000 per month[reference:105].
Q: What is the GOtv decoder cost?
A standard GOtv Starter Kit (decoder + GOtenna + 1-month GOtv Max subscription) sells for approximately ₦9,100 at MultiChoice agents and major retailers[reference:106].
Q: What is the Startimes decoder cost?
Startimes decoder costs vary by technology. DTH (Satellite): Decoder + Dish + Accessories: ₦28,900; Decoder Only: ₦8,900. DTT (Terrestrial): Decoder + Antenna + Accessories: ₦13,900; Decoder Only: ₦7,900[reference:107].
Q: Does GOtv offer multi-month payment options?
Yes. GOtv Smallie offers quarterly (₦5,100) and annual (₦15,000) payment options[reference:108]. GOtv Lite also offers quarterly (₦1,080) and annual (₦3,180) options[reference:109].
Q: Can I pay for cable TV using my bank's USSD code?
Yes. Most Nigerian banks allow TV subscription payments via USSD. Examples include GTBank (*737#), Access Bank (*901#), First Bank (*894#), UBA (*919#), and Zenith (*966#). Select "TV" or "Cable TV" and choose your provider.
Q: How do I find my DSTV smart card number?
Your DSTV smart card number is a 10 or 11-digit number found on a sticker on your decoder, on your subscription receipt, or on the DStv website when you log in to your account[reference:110].
Q: How do I find my GOtv IUC number?
Your GOtv IUC number is found on a red label underneath your decoder[reference:111]. It is also available on your subscription receipt or on the GOtv website when you log in.
Q: Does Startimes show the FIFA World Cup?
Yes. Startimes broadcasts all 104 FIFA World Cup matches on its dedicated channels ST Sports Life (CH253/243) and ST World Football (CH254/245)[reference:112].
Q: Which platform is best for movies?
DSTV Premium offers the widest range of movie channels, including M-Net, M-Net Movies Premiere, Action+, and Smile[reference:113]. Startimes Classic also offers premium movie channels like ZEE Cinema and Bollywood HD[reference:114].
Q: Is it safe to pay for cable TV online?
Yes, if you use trusted and approved platforms such as the official apps, bank apps, Quickteller, or reputable VTU platforms like Fujest. Always avoid unofficial channels and never share your personal information with unauthorised individuals.

Conclusion – Choose the Right Cable TV Platform for Your Needs

Your Complete Guide to DSTV, GOtv and Startimes

Nigeria's pay-TV market offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and viewing preference. DSTV remains the premium choice for sports and movie enthusiasts, offering the most comprehensive channel lineup. GOtv provides an affordable alternative with the backing of the MultiChoice ecosystem, while Startimes offers the most budget-friendly packages with a growing channel selection.

Our Top Recommendations:

  • Budget-conscious viewers: Startimes Nova (₦900/month) or GOtv Lite (₦410/month).
  • Family entertainment: GOtv Jolli (₦5,800/month) or DStv Confam (₦11,000/month).
  • Sports fans: DStv Premium (₦44,500/month) for all SuperSport channels.
  • Movie lovers: DStv Premium or Compact Plus, or Startimes Classic (₦4,500/month).
  • Flexible viewing (no dish): DStv Stream (from ₦19,000/month).

For the most convenient and secure payments, use official apps, bank apps, Quickteller, or trusted VTU platforms like Fujest. Always keep your smart card number handy and double-check before making payment.

Pay Your TV Subscription on Fujest

With the information in this guide, you now have a complete understanding of the DSTV, GOtv, and Startimes platforms in Nigeria. Use this guide to compare packages, choose the right platform for your needs, and pay your subscription online with confidence.

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Fujest Team The Fujest Team is dedicated to helping Nigerians access essential services conveniently and affordably. From DSTV, GOtv and Startimes subscriptions to VTU transactions, we are committed to providing reliable, secure, and user-friendly solutions for all your needs. Visit Fujest.com for more.