Starlink, the satellite internet service operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has decided to pause its planned increase in monthly subscription fees for users in Nigeria.
In a notification to subscribers on Thursday, Nigeria’s third-largest internet service provider stated that the price hike would be postponed while it works through regulatory issues.
The company, which serves 24 million internet users, assured those who have already been billed at the higher rate that they would receive a credit.
It also reminded customers that they have the option to cancel their subscriptions if desired.
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“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.
“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,” the company noted.
Three weeks ago, the company increased its monthly subscription by 97%, raising it from N38,000 to N75,000, which has led to customer complaints about the significant hike.
Additionally, Starlink raised the price of its installation kit for new users from N440,000 to N590,000, marking a 34% increase.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has retracted its earlier statement regarding Starlink’s operations.
In a brief message to media outlets, the NCC acknowledged the statement was released in error and urged editors and journalists to retract any related publications.
“Kindly note that this press statement on Starlink was issued in error. It is hereby WITHDRAWN. If already published, kindly BRING DOWN,” the message, signed by the NCC’s Manager of Media Relations, Kunle Azeez, stated.
The mobile operators, represented by the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria and led by Chairman Gbenga Adebayo, also condemned the decision, describing it as a “regulatory affront.”
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