DStv has announced that it will introduce dual commentary options in English and West African Pidgin for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), a move that brings the tournament closer to the linguistic and cultural identity of millions of African viewers.

The decision reflects the broadcaster’s push to make live sports more accessible and relatable. Pidgin, widely spoken across Nigeria and much of West Africa, has grown into a powerful storytelling medium, especially in football, where humour, spontaneity, and emotional energy elevate the viewing experience. By offering commentary in both English and Pidgin, DStv aims to give fans the freedom to choose the tone and style that matches how they enjoy the game.

AFCON remains one of Africa’s most-watched sporting events, attracting massive audiences across the continent and the diaspora. With anticipation building ahead of the 2025 tournament, broadcasters are under increasing pressure to deliver coverage that reflects the diverse realities of fans. DStv’s dedicated Pidgin commentary feed forms part of a broader strategy to deepen audience connection and deliver content that mirrors everyday language and culture.

The move also responds to the growing demand for localised programming. Pidgin-language content has surged across radio, digital platforms, and entertainment, with viewers praising its ability to make football commentary more expressive, humorous, and engaging. By offering a bilingual broadcast, DStv signals its commitment to meeting these evolving preferences.

Subscribers will be able to switch between English and Pidgin commentary throughout AFCON 2025. The broadcaster says the goal is to create a more inclusive viewing experience for fans, whether they are watching from Lagos, Accra, Douala, Port Harcourt, or abroad.

With excitement rising ahead of kickoff, the expanded language options are set to strengthen engagement and bring Africa’s biggest football tournament even closer to home.