Starlink, the satellite internet service owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has announced the suspension of orders for its residential kits in Nigeria, pending approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for its recently proposed price hike.
In an October message to its customers, the Starlink team announced a temporary suspension of its earlier planned price increase for Nigerian users.
Investors King reported that the internet service provider cited regulatory challenges as the primary reason for its decision.
Without the temporary suspension, Starlink’s monthly subscription would have increased sharply from ₦38,000 to ₦75,000, representing a 97% hike.
However, amid growing economic challenges affecting businesses, the company has revealed plans to discontinue orders for its Residential Plan in Nigeria.
In a fresh message to its Nigerian customers, Starlink stated it would continue to accept orders for its premium Business Plan, which requires a monthly subscription fee of ₦159,000, compared to the Residential Plan’s ₦38,000 per month.
Assuring its Nigerian customers of improved internet services, Starlink stated: “We’re committed to providing high-speed internet in Nigeria and are working closely with regulators to make adjustments that will improve the customer experience.”
The company also noted that the suspension of new Residential Plan orders would remain in effect until the NCC approves the proposed price hike.
“Until these changes are approved, we are placing new Residential orders on hold,” the company said in response to customer inquiries about its kits.
Starlink’s proposed price hike has sparked outrage among local service providers, who accused the NCC of double standards for allegedly allowing Starlink to implement the increase. This prompted the regulatory body to refute claims of such approval.
If the NCC approves Starlink’s proposal, other service providers, such as MTN—who recently attempted to raise tariffs—may also seek similar approvals.
