The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has retracted its earlier statement claiming it did not approve Starlink’s recent price hike. In a statement issued Tuesday morning, the NCC initially asserted it would sanction the satellite ISP for increasing its subscription prices without regulatory approval.
“We were surprised that the company announced price changes after filing a request to the Commission seeking approval for a price adjustment, for which the Commission had not yet communicated a decision,” the NCC stated earlier.
Last week, Starlink doubled its base subscription rate to ₦75,000 ($48) per month and increased the prices of its kits by 34%, from ₦440,000 to ₦590,000.
However, in a subsequent communication, the NCC clarified, “Kindly note this press statement was issued in error. It is hereby withdrawn. If published, kindly take it down.”
Despite the price hike, Starlink remains Nigeria’s only major satellite internet provider, offering a crucial alternative to traditional terrestrial internet services. This increase occurs amidst soaring inflation in Nigeria, which has strained the cost of living for many Nigerians.
Under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 (NCA), the NCC holds the authority to regulate telecom tariffs. The Act stipulates that NCC licensees cannot charge for services without prior approval of their tariff rates and charges. This regulation has been a significant point of contention between the NCC and mobile network operators, whose prices have remained static for over eleven years. The NCC has consistently resisted calls to review tariff prices.