Starlink pauses price hike for Nigerian subscribers amid regulatory scrutiny
Starlink, Elon Musk’s SpaceX-owned satellite internet service, has paused its recent price increase for Nigerian users due to ongoing regulatory concerns.
In a message to subscribers on Thursday, the company shared that the suspension is temporary as it seeks to resolve these issues with Nigerian regulators.
The decision follows Starlink’s earlier move to raise monthly subscription fees from N38,000 to N75,000—a 97% hike—that drew strong backlash from Nigerian customers.
Additionally, the cost of the installation kit for new users was increased by 34%, from N440,000 to N590,000.
Acknowledging customers’ concerns, Starlink assured those already billed at the higher rate that they would receive a credit adjustment.
The company also reminded subscribers that they have the option to cancel their service if necessary.
In its message, Starlink explained that while the price increase aimed to offset inflation costs and maintain reliable service, they have now opted to pause this adjustment as they work with regulators to ensure operational improvements.
READ ALSO: NCC targets Starlink for unapproved price increase in Nigeria
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) previously issued a statement regarding Starlink’s operations but later retracted it, clarifying that the release had been an error.
The NCC urged media outlets to withdraw related reports. Meanwhile, Nigerian mobile operators, represented by the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria, voiced opposition to Starlink’s pricing strategy, calling it a “regulatory affront.”
Starlink’s Nigerian user base, currently the country’s third-largest internet provider, includes 24 million customers, positioning it as a significant player in the Nigerian internet landscape.
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