Starlink Suspends Internet Price Increase in Nigeria

Starlink, the satellite internet service operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has announced a suspension of its planned monthly subscription price hike for Nigerian users. In a communication to subscribers on Thursday, the company, which ranks as Nigeria’s third-largest internet service provider, stated that the price increase would be paused while it addresses regulatory issues.

Starlink, which boasts 24 million internet users, assured customers who had already been billed the new rate that they would receive a credit. The company also reminded users that they have the option to cancel their subscriptions if they choose to do so.

“Last month, we increased the monthly service price for Starlink in Nigeria to account for inflation, allowing us to maintain operations and continue delivering reliable service,” the company explained. “Today, we are temporarily suspending this price increase as we navigate regulatory challenges. We remain committed to providing high-speed internet in Nigeria, but we need regulatory support to make necessary improvements for a better customer experience. Without these approvals, our ability to continue delivering service is at risk.”

The price hike, which raised the monthly subscription by 97% from N38,000 to N75,000, had sparked significant complaints from customers regarding the steep increase. Additionally, the cost of the installation kit for new users was raised by 34%, from N440,000 to N590,000.

In a separate development, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) recently withdrew its earlier statement regarding Starlink’s operations, admitting it was issued in error. The NCC requested media outlets to retract any related publications.

Mobile operators, represented by the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria, condemned Starlink’s pricing decision, calling it a “regulatory affront,” as voiced by Chairman Gbenga Adebayo.


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