
Netflix, the world’s leading video streaming platform, has announced an upward review of its subscription prices in Nigeria, effective July 4, 2025. The new pricing affects all four existing plans, with some increases as high as 21 percent.
Under the revised structure, the Premium plan now costs ₦8,500, up from ₦7,000. The Standard plan rises to ₦6,500, while the Basic plan will now cost ₦4,000. The Mobile-only plan — typically favored by younger and lower-income users — increases from ₦2,200 to ₦2,500.
Netflix stated that the hike is in line with its global strategy to enhance content offerings and improve user experience. “As we invest in and improve Netflix, we occasionally adjust prices to reflect those improvements,” the company said in a message to Nigerian subscribers.
The move marks the third time Netflix has raised prices in the Nigerian market since April 2024, and comes amid mounting economic pressures on households. With inflation exceeding 30 percent and telecommunications companies raising data costs, many Nigerians are questioning whether they can continue to afford premium digital entertainment.
Reactions on social media have been swift, with many users expressing frustration over the timing and frequency of the increases. “Netflix is pricing itself out of reach,” one subscriber posted on X (formerly Twitter). Another wrote, “With data costs and now this hike, it’s becoming too expensive for the average Nigerian.”
The new prices have also prompted comparisons with other streaming services such as Showmax, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube Premium. Some users say they are considering switching to cheaper alternatives or reducing their subscription tier.
Market analysts note that while Netflix remains a market leader in Nigeria’s streaming space, continuous price hikes during an economic downturn could lead to subscriber churn. “Affordability remains a key determinant in emerging markets like Nigeria. Netflix risks losing casual users who may turn to piracy or local content platforms,” said media analyst Tunde Olayemi.
Since entering Nigeria, Netflix has invested over $23 million in local film productions, documentaries, and original series. It has collaborated with major Nollywood studios and helped launch global titles such as Aníkúlápó, Shanty Town, and The Black Book. These moves have supported job creation and content export across Africa.
However, the company’s recent pricing strategy is part of a broader global trend. Netflix has increased prices in over 15 countries in 2025 alone and is also expanding ad-supported plans to widen its revenue streams.
Despite the criticism, industry insiders believe the company may introduce discounts or bundled offers in the coming months to ease the pressure on Nigerian subscribers, particularly younger users and mobile consumers.
As competition intensifies in Nigeria’s streaming market, affordability and local content appeal will remain decisive. Whether Netflix can maintain its subscriber base in the face of economic hardship and shifting viewer behavior remains to be seen.
Meanwhile, consumers are advised to review their plans and explore available options, especially as the cost of digital entertainment continues to rise.