DStv drops four channels: where Nigerian subscribers can find replacements
By Aboki Forex —
DStv has removed four popular channels from its line-up after Paramount Africa shut down operations. The affected channels are BET Africa, MTV Base, CBS Justice and CBS Reality, and they stopped broadcasting on DStv and GOtv on January 1, 2026.
Subscribers who relied on those channels for music, entertainment, reality television and crime shows are now looking for alternatives. The removal is part of a wider shake-up in the pay-TV industry as streaming platforms and changing viewing habits put pressure on traditional television.
What happened to the channels
Paramount Africa closed its operations, leading to the exit of the four channels. The development affected both DStv and GOtv. MultiChoice, the company behind DStv, has been shifting focus to its digital platforms and on-demand content.
For Nigerian viewers, the loss does not mean an end to similar content. Those who watched MTV Base for music and lifestyle can explore other music and entertainment channels available on DStv packages. Options include MTV, BBC Lifestyle, Bravo, MovieRoom and other local and international offerings. Channel availability depends on the subscriber's bouquet.
Crime, reality and African content alternatives
Viewers who followed CBS Justice and CBS Reality for crime, investigation and documentary programmes can turn to Investigation Discovery, National Geographic, History Channel and other factual entertainment channels, where available.
BET Africa's removal is a big blow for fans of African entertainment, celebrity programming, music and reality shows. There is no direct one-for-one replacement for every BET Africa programme. However, subscribers can find other African-focused entertainment on DStv and on legitimate streaming platforms carrying licensed African movies, series and reality content.
MultiChoice pushes streaming
The change highlights the growing role of streaming services in entertainment consumption. MultiChoice has been steering viewers toward its digital platforms. Showmax closed in April 2026, and many popular Showmax titles and Originals moved to DStv Stream.
DStv Stream now has a dedicated Showmax section featuring selected Originals and other popular titles. This means DStv subscribers are getting a mix of live television and on-demand programming instead of relying only on traditional linear channels.
Despite the four removals, DStv kept 12 channels that had been at risk of leaving. A last-minute agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery preserved CNN International, Cartoon Network, Cartoonito, Discovery Channel, TLC and Food Network.
What it means for Nigerian viewers
DStv's content line-up is changing quickly. Subscribers should check the latest channel listings and streaming options before deciding whether to change their package. The pay-TV market is becoming more competitive, and viewers have more choices than ever about where and how to watch shows.
Streaming is steadily reshaping household entertainment, and cheaper internet access is giving Nigerians and other African consumers more alternatives to traditional pay-TV. MultiChoice faces growing competition from Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ and Apple TV+. With cheaper broadband, mobile data and affordable streaming subscriptions, consumers can now build their own entertainment packages.