The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced its intention to take action against Elon Musk’s satellite internet company, Starlink, for increasing its subscription fees in Nigeria without prior approval from the regulator.
In a statement released on Tuesday by the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, the commission expressed concern over the recent price hike by Starlink. Last week, the company informed its customers of the increase, which applies to both new and existing users.
The new pricing structure saw the monthly subscription fee rise from N38,000 to N75,000, a 97% increase. In addition, the cost of the Starlink installation kit, required for new users, was raised from N440,000 to N590,000, marking a 34% jump.
However, according to the NCC, Starlink did not obtain the necessary approval before implementing these changes. Muoka explained that while Starlink had submitted a request for a price adjustment, the commission had not yet approved it when the company moved forward with the changes.
“The decision by Starlink to unilaterally review its subscription packages upwards did not receive the approval of the Nigerian Communications Commission,” said Muoka. He further stated that this action potentially violates sections of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, which requires service providers to seek regulatory approval before adjusting tariffs.
The NCC emphasized that it would enforce the law under Sections 108 and 111 of the NCA, which empower the commission to regulate telecom tariffs and impose penalties on companies that exceed approved rates.
The commission assured Nigerians that it would take the necessary enforcement measures to ensure compliance and protect the stability of the telecommunications sector.
