The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has initiated pre-enforcement measures against Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service provider, following the company’s unauthorized price hike, which violates the NCC’s regulations and licensing conditions.
Reuben Muoka, Director of Public Affairs at NCC, confirmed on Tuesday that Starlink’s recent decision to double its subscription prices violated regulatory protocols.
“The decision by Starlink to unilaterally review their subscription packages upwards did not receive the approval of the Nigerian Communications Commission,” he stated.
The regulatory body emphasized that Starlink’s actions directly contravene Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, along with the company’s license conditions regarding tariff modifications.
“The Commission commenced pre-enforcement action on the licensee on the 3rd of October, 2024,” Muoka added.
Starlink implemented price adjustments last week, blaming inflationary pressures.
The standard residential plan saw a dramatic increase from N38,000 to N75,000 monthly, while hardware costs surged from N440,000 to N590,000.
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The price hike sparked controversy within Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, particularly among local internet service providers.
The Explainer learned, the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has long sought approval for tariff reviews, which the NCC has consistently denied.
The NCC has not yet specified what penalties Starlink might face.
