MultiChoice has stated that the Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG) billing system requested by Nigerians is neither technically nor commercially viable. This was revealed by John Ugbe, CEO of MultiChoice Nigeria, during a session with the House of Representatives’ committee investigating the company’s refusal to adopt the PAYG model.

Ugbe explained that MultiChoice lacks the technology to support PAYG and clarified the difference between Pay-Per-View (PPV) and PAYG. He noted that while the telecommunications sector uses PAYG as a metered service where customers only pay for what they use, this model is unsuitable for pay-TV. He pointed out that telecommunications operate on a two-way communication system, allowing providers to monitor when services are used. In contrast, satellite broadcasting is a one-way system, making it impossible to determine when a customer is connected or watching a specific channel.

Ugbe further mentioned that introducing PAYG would require a complete overhaul of satellite broadcasting technology and billing systems, which would lead to much higher costs for consumers. He emphasized that no pay-TV service globally offers PAYG as envisioned in this debate and described it as unfeasible.

Regarding PPV, Ugbe clarified that it involves paying extra for specific events, such as high-profile boxing matches, in addition to the regular subscription. He used the Mayweather-Pacquiao fight as an example, noting that the PPV price would have exceeded the cost of a DStv premium bouquet.

While the PAYG issue remains a point of contention between MultiChoice and the House of Representatives, another satellite firm, StarTimes Nigeria, offers flexible subscription plans. StarTimes allows customers to select daily, weekly, monthly, or quarterly payment options, ensuring they only pay for the time they access services.