Starlink, the satellite internet service owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has paused its recent price increase for Nigerian customers, following regulatory concerns.
In a message to its subscribers on Thursday, Starlink, Nigeria’s third-largest internet provider with about 24 million users, explained that the price hike would be temporarily suspended to address these issues. For customers already charged the higher rate, the company promised a refund and reminded users they could cancel their subscriptions if needed.
“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,” the message from Starlink stated. “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 the improvements necessary for a better customer experience. Without these approvals, our ability to continue delivering service is at risk.”
Just three weeks ago, Starlink raised its monthly subscription cost by 97 percent, from N38,000 to N75,000, sparking complaints from users. Additionally, the installation kit price for new customers went up by 34 percent, from N440,000 to N590,000.
The Nigerian Communications Commission also withdrew a previous press statement on Starlink’s operations, acknowledging it was issued “in error” and requested media outlets to remove any publications based on it. The NCC’s message, signed by Media Relations Manager Kunle Azeez, noted, “Kindly note that this press statement on Starlink was issued in error. It is hereby WITHDRAWN. If already published, kindly BRING DOWN.”
Meanwhile, the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria, led by Chairman Gbenga Adebayo, criticized the price hike, calling it a “regulatory affront.”
Starlink’s suspension of the price increase comes amid ongoing discussions to resolve these issues, while many customers await further clarity on the situation.
