SES satellites provide access to local television channels

These include multinational language channels like Cinema Hausa, and popular African lifestyle channels such as True African.

Delivered via SES satellites, this channel bouquet is supplied by AfricaXP, an independent African network, which is well-known for its compelling Nollywood catalogue and longstanding partnerships with prominent West African producers.

Craig Kelly, CEO of AfricaXP, said that working with SES has enabled PREMIUM.FREE to achieve the maximum possible reach in Nigeria.

“We are confident that localisation, coupled with our fresh international rights will provide the kind of content blend that modern West African audiences demand. Transmitted free-to-air via satellite, this is obviously a great offer at a price point that can’t be beaten,” he added.

PREMIUM.FREE claims that it is this blend of premium African programming with top-flight international content across a diverse range of themes from sports to movies, telenovelas, kids, factual, reality and lifestyle programming that sets it apart from other channel bouquet offerings on the market.

SES, a satellite operator with more than 70 satellites, reaches more than nine million direct-to-home households across West Africa from its orbital position of 28.2° East. Those households with existing FTA set-top boxes (STBs) will be able to start watching the new channels on their existing STBs for free.

Clint Brown, vice-president of sales and market development, Africa for SES Video, commented, “The Nigerian FTA market, in particular, offers great opportunities for growth, and we are proud to have engaged with PREMIUM.FREE to deliver a differentiated content package for Nigeria and offer more choice for viewers.”

“New initiatives like this, which focus on delivering local and international content that is attractive for the end-consumer and is offered in high picture quality, will further develop consumer choice in Nigeria,” he concluded.