The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced its intention to impose sanctions on Starlink due to a recent increase in subscription fees.
Starlink has raised its monthly subscription rate from N38,000 to N75,000, a significant hike that also affects new users, who will now have to pay more for the equipment required to access the service. Previously priced at N440,000, the kit is now being offered at N590,000.
This price increase applies to both existing customers and new subscribers, leading to concerns about the financial impact on users.
In response to this development, Reuben Muoka, the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, stated that Starlink’s decision to unilaterally adjust its subscription fees did not receive prior approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission.
Muoka emphasized: “The Commission will, therefore, take appropriate enforcement measures against any action by a licensee that has the potential to undermine the regulatory stability of the telecommunications industry.” He reiterated that the NCC is committed to maintaining oversight in the sector to protect consumers and ensure fair practices.
The NCC expressed its surprise that Starlink proceeded to announce price changes despite having submitted a request for approval to adjust its fees, which the Commission had not yet reviewed or communicated a decision on.
“We were surprised that the company jumped the gun by announcing price changes after filing a request to the Commission seeking approval for price adjustment,” the NCC noted.
Furthermore, the Commission highlighted that Starlink’s actions may violate Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, as well as the conditions set forth in Starlink’s license regarding tariff adjustments. The NCC’s intervention aims to uphold regulatory standards and ensure that service providers adhere to established guidelines in their operations.
