The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is set to take action against Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, Starlink, for raising its subscription fees without the necessary approval.
The announcement comes after Starlink informed customers of a significant price hike, which increased the monthly subscription from N38,000 to N75,000—representing a 97% rise.
Additionally, the cost of the Starlink installation kit has also surged by 34%, now priced at N590,000, up from N440,000.
According to Reuben Muoka, the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, the commission had not authorized this price adjustment.
He expressed concern over Starlink’s unilateral decision to alter its subscription rates and revealed that the commission had yet to approve the price change, despite Starlink submitting a request for it.
Muoka emphasized that this move by Starlink breaches the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003, specifically Sections 108 and 111, which regulate telecommunications tariffs.
The NCC said it holds the authority to oversee service charges and can impose fines on any licensee that fails to adhere to approved tariff rates.
The commission also plans to implement necessary enforcement measures to uphold regulatory stability in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
He said, “The action of the company appears to be a contravention of Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, and Starlink’s Licence Conditions regarding tariffs.
“The commission will, therefore, take appropriate enforcement measures against any action by a licensee that is capable of eroding the regulatory stability of the telecommunications industry.”
