Nigerian Communications Commission Threatens Enforcement Against Starlink for Unapproved Price Hike
Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, Starlink, is facing enforcement measures from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for unilaterally increasing its subscription prices in Nigeria without approval. According to a statement issued by the commission’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, on Tuesday, Starlink’s decision to hike its prices is a contravention of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003 and the company’s licence conditions.
Starlink announced the price increase, which affects both existing and new customers, in a message sent to its customers last week. The monthly subscription fee has been increased by 97%, from N38,000 to N75,000. New users will also face a higher cost for the Starlink kit, priced at N590,000, up 34% from the previous price of N440,000.
The NCC was “surprised” by Starlink’s decision to increase prices, despite the company having filed a request for a price adjustment, which the regulator had yet to approve. Muoka stated that the commission will take appropriate enforcement measures against any action that is capable of eroding the regulatory stability of the telecommunications industry.
The Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003 empowers the NCC to regulate telecom tariffs, stipulating that no licensee can impose charges for services without obtaining tariff approval from the commission. Section 108 of the Act gives the NCC authority to regulate telecom tariffs, while Section 111 empowers the commission to impose financial penalties on any licensee that exceeds approved tariffs, regardless of other legal provisions.
With the threat of enforcement, Starlink may face penalties for violating the NCC’s rules and regulations. The regulator’s move highlights the importance of regulatory approval for any changes to services or tariffs in the telecommunications industry.
The Nigerian public is expected to be watching closely as the situation develops, particularly as the rise of satellite internet services promises to transform the country’s digital landscape.
