News
Starlink Suspends Service Fee Increase In Nigeria
Elon Musk’s Starlink, the worldwide provider of satellite internet, has decided to roll back its recent increase in service fees in Nigeria after facing backlash from customers and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
This decision brings much-needed relief to Nigerians looking for affordable internet access and addresses the regulatory issues the company has faced with its pricing approach.
Just last month, Starlink raised its service fees to cover the rising costs of inflation, increasing the monthly subscription from N38,000 to N75,000 and the price of its equipment packages for new users from N440,000 to N590,000.
However, the NCC responded harshly to Starlink’s fee increase, claiming that the company had broken the rules of Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003 and had violated its operating license by making changes to its rates without the necessary regulatory approval.
Even though Starlink had submitted a request for a rate change to the NCC, it went ahead with the fee adjustments before getting a final decision from the Commission.
The NCC cautioned that Starlink’s early changes in pricing could lead to instability in Nigeria’s telecom industry.
In response to the NCC’s criticism, Starlink has put a hold on the fee increase.
Don’t miss out on any real-time information. Join our WhatsApp group to stay updated.
“Last month, we increased the monthly service price for Starlink in Nigeria to account for inflation, helping us maintain operations and continue delivering reliable service.
“Today, we are temporarily suspending this price increase as we navigate regulatory challenges,” Starlink announced on Friday.
The announcement also stated that Starlink will issue a one-time discount to individuals who have been charged at a higher rate previously, to bridge the gap, emphasizing that customers are free to terminate their subscriptions at any moment.
This move not only resolves the issues raised by the NCC but also strengthens Starlink’s pledge to offer affordable high-speed internet in Nigeria.
The implementation of this decision is expected to boost internet coverage throughout the nation, offering better opportunities for people, companies, and communities to access dependable online services.
Starlink’s dedication to Nigeria is further backed by its collaborations with TD Africa and Konga, two key figures in the tech and e-commerce industries of the region.
TD Africa, a top-tier technology distributor, has played a crucial role in making Starlink kits available across Nigeria and West Africa.
Konga, meanwhile, operates a Starlink pop-up store, offering customers authentic Starlink kits.
This alliance has been key in making satellite internet more reachable and in advancing digital inclusion, aiming that better internet access will stimulate economic growth, bolster educational progress, and enhance healthcare services in areas that are currently underserved.