Best Free-to-Air (FTA) Decoders and Frequencies in Nigeria: How to Watch Free Satellite TV

If you’re tired of paying monthly fees just to watch TV, free-to-air (FTA) decoders are a game changer. They give you access to a wide range of TV channels across Nigeria without any recurring subscription costs. The only investment you make is in the equipment and installation, and after that, your viewing is free.

A Quick Look Back: TV in Nigeria

Nigeria has a long history with television. In fact, back in 1959, it became the very first African country to launch a television service. Fast-forward to today, and the country boasts one of the biggest TV networks on the continent, with well over 100 channels. Many of these are available on FTA, which means you don’t need to pay to enjoy them.

What Exactly Are FTA Channels?

FTA channels are television stations you can watch without paying any subscription fees. With just one decoder, you can connect to multiple satellites that host different stations. How many channels you’ll get depends on the size of your dish and how well it’s positioned.

What You Need to Set Up FTA in Nigeria

To get started, you’ll need:

• A satellite dish (a larger one, like 1.8m, gets you more channels)
• LNBF (Low Noise Block Feedhorn)
• An FTA decoder
• Radio frequency cables

You can install the setup yourself by following the manuals, but honestly, hiring a professional makes life easier, especially if you want the widest range of channels.

FTA Frequencies You Can Access in Nigeria

Over the years, FTA broadcasting has grown stronger. For example, the partnership between CWG and SES brought the first direct-to-home FTA platform on the ASTRA 2F satellite, allowing millions of homes in Nigeria to connect easily.

Here are some common FTA frequencies in use today:

• 11635 V 30000-5/6
• 12525 V 30000-5/6
• 11595 V 30000-5/6
• 11675 H 30000-5/6
• 12605 V 30000

On these frequencies, you’ll find channels like Joy Prime, Adom TV, Joy News, Maranatha TV, Atinka TV, and more.

The Best Satellites for Free-to-Air Channels in Nigeria

If you want to get the most out of your decoder, certain satellites are more reliable for Nigerian viewers. For instance, MultiTV (Astra2F) and Amos (Eutelsat16A) carry a great mix of entertainment, news, movies, and religious content. Depending on the satellite, you might need a dish ranging from 0.6m to 3m.

Here are some of the most popular options:

1. Mega Choice

• Position: 29°/30° East
• Frequency: 11294
• Symbol Rate: 45000
• Dish Size: 1m
• Polarization: H

2. Multi TV (Astra2F)

• Position: 28.2° East
• Frequency: 11595
• Symbol Rate: 30000
• Dish Size: 1m
• Polarization: H

3. Hotbird

• Position: 13° East
• Frequency: 11541
• Symbol Rate: 22000
• Dish Size: 3m
• Polarization: H

4. Intelsat 20

• Position: 68.5° East
• Frequency: 12633
• Symbol Rate: 16166
• Dish Size: 0.6m
• Polarization: H

5. Ses

• Position: 4.8° East
• Frequency: 12014
• Symbol Rate: 30000
• Dish Size: 0.6m / 0.9m
• Polarization: H

6. Arabsat 5C

• Position: 20° East
• Frequency: 3712
• Symbol Rate: 1599
• Dish Size: 1m
• Polarization: V

From these satellites, you can enjoy channels like Emmanuel TV, Star Movies, Wap TV, Channels TV, TVC Entertainment, and African Movie Net.

So, What Is an FTA Decoder?

Simply put, an FTA decoder is the device that picks up and displays free satellite signals. Unlike paid TV boxes, it doesn’t require encryption or monthly fees. If you want the best experience, look for one that supports HD, subtitles, and can store thousands of channels.

Popular FTA Decoders in Nigeria

Some reliable brands include:

• Strong multifunctional decoders
• Unique SAT Ultra HD decoders
• View SAT HD decoders
• Power SAT 99SM receivers
• Digicom 9000 HD decoders

Which Satellite Has the Most Free Channels?

That title goes to Eutelsat, which broadcasts more than 300 FTA channels in Sub-Saharan Africa and over 400 across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.

Where to Buy FTA Decoders in Nigeria

You can purchase them from well-known brands like:

• TSTV
• Strong
• Power Sat
• Multi TV
• QSAT

How Much Do They Cost?

Prices vary based on features, but on average, FTA decoders in Nigeria go for ₦6,500 to ₦35,000.

Which Decoder Gives the Most Channels?

C-SAT decoders tend to offer the widest channel range. Others with strong options include Strong, QSAT, Power Sat 777SM, TSTV, and MultiTV decoders.