Starlink Reverses Price Hike in Nigeria After Regulatory Intervention

Starlink Backtracks on Nigerian Price Hike

“We remain committed to providing high- speed internet in Nigeria, but we...”

Elon Musk's Starlink scraps planned price increase in Nigeria following regulatory review. Understand the implications for Nigerian users.

Elon Musk's SpaceX has temporarily shelved plans to increase monthly subscription fees for Starlink, its satellite internet service in Nigeria. In a notification sent to subscribers on October 24 from its Dubai headquarters, Starlink announced the price hike suspension due to ongoing regulatory issues.

As Nigeria's third-largest internet provider, serving 24 million users, Starlink reassured affected customers who have already been billed the higher rate that they will receive a refund. The company also reminded subscribers of their option to cancel their subscriptions if needed.

“Last month, we increased the monthly service price for Starlink in Nigeria to account for inflation, helping us maintain operations and continue delivering reliable service.

“Today, we are temporarily suspending this price increase as we navigate regulatory challenges.

“We remain committed to providing high- speed internet in Nigeria, but we need regulatory support to make the improvements necessary for a better customer experience.

“Without these approvals, our ability to continue delivering service is at risk,” the company noted.

Starlink faced backlash three weeks ago when it hiked its monthly subscription by 97%, skyrocketing from N38,000 to N75,000. This drastic increase sparked widespread complaints from customers.

Furthermore, the company raised the installation kit cost for new users by 34%, from N440,000 to N590,000. These price increases have put pressure on customers, prompting calls for regulatory intervention.

Highlights 

• Starlink pauses price hike in Nigeria
• Regulatory issues prompt suspension
• Refunds for customers already billed higher rate
• Option to cancel subscriptions remains
• Starlink serves 24 million Nigerian internet users
• 97% monthly subscription hike (N38,000 to N75,000)
• 34% installation kit price rise (N440,000 to N590,000)
• Customer complaints and backlash
• Regulatory review prompted by price increases