Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, Starlink, has unveiled a sharp increase in its monthly subscription rates for customers in Nigeria. The new pricing takes effect immediately for new subscribers and will apply to existing customers starting January 27, 2025.
In an email sent to its users, Starlink justified the price adjustment as part of its commitment to enhancing the network and maintaining reliable, high-quality service across Nigeria.
“To continue enhancing the Starlink network and provide reliable, high-quality service across Nigeria, we are adjusting our monthly subscription prices,” the company stated. “These changes are part of our ongoing commitment to investing in the infrastructure needed to improve your experience with Starlink.”
New Pricing Structure
Under the revised tariff plan:
- The standard monthly subscription (residential tier) has nearly doubled, increasing from N38,000 to N75,000.
- The mobile-regional roam unlimited plan is now priced at N167,000, while the mobile-global roam service has escalated to a staggering N717,000 per month.
Recurring Price Adjustments
This marks the second price hike by Starlink in Nigeria within a short period. On October 1, 2024, the company raised its standard subscription fee by 97.37%, from N38,000 to N75,000. Additionally, the cost of Starlink hardware saw a substantial jump from N440,000 to N590,000.
Regulatory Response
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has expressed concerns over Starlink’s unilateral decision to revise its tariffs without prior approval. The NCC cited violations of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, specifically Sections 108 and 111, as well as Starlink’s licensing conditions regarding tariff regulations.
“The decision by Starlink to unilaterally review their subscription packages upwards did not receive the approval of the Nigerian Communications Commission,” the NCC noted in an earlier statement. “The action of the company is in contravention of the Nigerian Communications Act and Starlink’s License Conditions regarding tariffs. The Commission commenced pre-enforcement action on the licensee on the 3rd of October, 2024.”
Temporary Reprieve
Following regulatory pressure, Starlink temporarily suspended its price hike for Nigerian users on October 25, 2024. At the time, the company explained the increase was intended to account for inflation and sustain operations but decided to pause the adjustment to address regulatory concerns.
Industry Context
Starlink’s price hike comes amid broader challenges in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector. Local telecom operators have been advocating for tariff increases due to inflation and rising operational costs but have faced hurdles in securing approval from regulators.
The latest adjustment by Starlink raises questions about the accessibility and affordability of satellite internet services in Nigeria, particularly as the country grapples with economic pressures and regulatory scrutiny.
