Multichoice Nigeria hints at new streaming service

Nigerian viewers who miss the entertainment experience previously offered by Showmax may have something new to look forward to, as MultiChoice Nigeria has hinted at plans to introduce another streaming service following the platform’s shutdown.

The development suggests that the company is not ready to abandon the streaming market despite ending Showmax operations earlier this year. For viewers, a new platform could provide another way to watch movies, television series, African productions and other entertainment content without relying entirely on traditional satellite television.

MultiChoice Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Kemi Omotosho, disclosed the company’s plans during a media briefing in Lagos on October 27, 2026, where the company also unveiled new subscription packages for DStv and GOtv customers.

According to Omotosho, the company is currently reviewing available streaming technologies to determine the most suitable platform to introduce to customers.

She explained that the decision to discontinue Showmax was difficult but necessary because the business was no longer financially sustainable.

Omotosho described the shutdown as heartbreaking, noting that she was personally a regular user of the platform. However, she stressed that the company wanted to ensure its next streaming product delivered an experience that could match or surpass what Showmax previously offered.

She also explained that MultiChoice did not want to rush into launching another service without first identifying the right technology.

The proposed platform is expected to offer features such as television box sets, personalised movie recommendations and an improved streaming experience. However, the company has not announced its official name, subscription prices or launch date.

Showmax officially discontinued its operations on April 30, 2026, following a decision by its board after a review of the business. The shutdown was linked to substantial annual financial losses that the company considered unsustainable.

Following the closure, some of Showmax’s original productions and popular programmes were moved to DStv Stream, allowing viewers to continue accessing selected titles. However, the existing service does not completely replace the experience previously offered by Showmax.

The possible return of a dedicated streaming platform comes at a time when competition in the entertainment industry continues to grow. International services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video have changed how audiences discover and watch movies and television programmes.

For Nigerian viewers, affordability, content variety, internet requirements and subscription flexibility will likely determine whether another MultiChoice streaming service attracts subscribers.

The development also raises expectations among viewers who enjoyed Showmax’s investment in African entertainment, particularly Nigerian movies, original series and reality television programmes.

Although MultiChoice has yet to provide a specific launch timeline, Omotosho assured customers that the company intends to return to the digital entertainment space with a product that delivers better value and customer experience.

For now, viewers will have to wait for further announcements as MultiChoice continues its assessment of the technology needed for its proposed streaming platform.