With the rise of YouTube and paid cable TV, many young Nigerians have forgotten — and completely abandoned — their days of humble beginnings, when they had to sit in front of the television at a particular time to catch their favourite programs. In those days, if you missed your show — whether it was Papa Ajasco or Project Fame — there was no guarantee you’d get a second chance to watch it.
Though those days are fast fading, there are still plenty of reasons to pick up the remote and explore what’s available on the myriad of free-to-air Nigerian TV stations we grew up watching.
For a week, I watched these channels with the goal of curating this list of the best programs currently airing. But I also learned a few things — chief among them: Music Africa is still alive and well on Silverbird, and there is a new Mexican series called If Only that is all the rage.
Here are the 10 best programs currently airing on free-to-air Nigerian TV stations.
1. Your View
A long-running, all-women morning talk show that blends hot topics, trending news, and personal experiences. Your View has become a daily staple for viewers looking for sharp takes on politics, society, relationships, and more — all delivered with warmth and honesty.
Channel: TVC (Television Continental)
Airing: Mondays to Fridays, around 9–10 a.m., with repeats at night
Host: Morayo Afolabi‑Brown
Co-hosts: Yeni Kuti, Tope Mark‑Odigie, Osayuwamen Peace‑Saleh, Olajumoke Olawode‑James, Nyma Akashat Zibiri, Sandra Eze
2. The Morning Show
A flagship morning program blending sharp analysis, interviews, and trending topics. Anchored by veteran journalist Reuben Abati, alongside Ojy Okpe and Rufai Oseni, The Morning Show explores politics, culture, business, and lifestyle across Africa with energy and insight. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie dropped by just a few weeks ago.
Channel: Arise TV (Arise News)
Airing: Weekdays, around 8 a.m.–10 a.m.
Hosts: Reuben Abati, Ojy Okpe, Rufai Oseni
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3. Wazobia Movies
A rotating selection of recent Nollywood films, from romantic comedies to gritty thrillers. Wazobia Movies serves up contemporary hits with all the drama, humour, and action Nigerian cinema is known for. It’s perfect for a midday escape.
Channel: Wazobia Max TV
Airing: Daily, around 11:30 a.m.
4. The Conversation
A political talk show for viewers with a deep interest in local governance and Lagos politics. The Conversation unpacks the inner workings of political power in Nigeria’s most influential state, analysing personalities, policies, and the behind-the-scenes drama shaping the city’s future.
Channel: LTV (Lagos Television)
Airing: Daily at 9:00 a.m.
5. ChiChi PingPing
A colourful animated fantasy-adventure series for preschoolers and early elementary kids. ChiChi PingPing follows Chi Chi, PingPing, Dogcat, Saengkeum, Sayo, and Dracong as they compete in the “World Exploration Competition”—travelling through magical lands, solving quirky missions, and celebrating friendship values.
Channel: AIT (African Independent Television)
Airing: Daily at 5:00 p.m.
Hosts/Voices: Animated voice cast
6. Journalists’ Hangout
A flagship current affairs programme that dives into the most pressing national issues—from politics and insecurity to business and education—Journalists Hangout features live viewer call-ins, expert debates, and razor-sharp commentary from leading journalists. It challenges authorities and helps Nigerians stay informed.
Channel: TVC News / Television Continental
Airing: Weekdays at 5:00 p.m.
Host: Ayodele Ozugbakun and a panel.
7. Politics Today (weekdays) & Sunday Politics (Sundays)
Two of Nigeria’s premier political analysis programs, hosted by the journalist Seun Okinbaloye. Politics Today delivers daily insight into the country’s political headlines, while Sunday Politics dives deeper into national governance and strategy. Known for incisive interviews and informed commentary, both shows are must-watch for anyone following Nigerian politics.
Channel: Channels Television
Airing: Politics Today airs at 7:00 p.m. on weekdays. Sunday Politics airs at 8:00 p.m. on Sundays.
Host: Seun Okinbaloye, Political Editor and Political Correspondent at Channels TV
8. If Only
A Spanish romantic drama with a time-travel twist. After feeling stuck in her marriage and family life, a 30-year-old woman is mysteriously sent back 10 years in time following a lunar eclipse, giving her a second chance at love, decisions, and destiny. If Only combines heartache, nostalgia, and suspense in a neatly wrapped eight-episode storyline. Especially captivating for viewers who love second-chance romance and emotional journeys.
Channel: ONTV Nigeria
Airing: Weekdays at 11:00 a.m. (local Lagos time)
Cast: Megan Montaner as Emma, Miquel Fernández as Nando, Michel Noher as Rubén, Jael Pascual as Isa, Eduardo Lloveras as Deme, Bore Buika as Andrés
9. Music Africa
One of Africa’s longest‑running music programs, Music Africa delivers a nonstop playlist of African music, including Afrobeats, highlife, coupé‑décalé, Afro‑pop, Amapiano and more. The show showcases both fresh tracks and established hits from across the continent, making it the perfect midday soundtrack for anyone who loves the latest African music wave.
Channel: Silverbird TV
Airing: Daily between 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
10. Up Close and Personal
A lifestyle documentary series that follows Nigerian celebrities through a typical day. From morning routines to studio sessions and personal downtime, Up Close and Personal offers an intimate look into how your faves live, work, and play.
Channel: Trybe TV
Airing: Daily, 6:45 p.m.
