Starlink suspends internet price hike amid regulatory scrutiny

• Starlink has suspended its recent price increase for Nigerian users due to regulatory scrutiny
• The price hike, aimed at adjusting for inflation, increased monthly subscriptions from N38,000 to N75,000
• Starlink noted the need for regulatory support to maintain and improve service, expressing concern about sustaining operations without these approvals

Starlink, the satellite internet service owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has suspended its decision to increase monthly internet subscriptions for Nigerian users.

In a message to subscribers on Thursday, October 24, Nigeria’s third-largest internet service provider explained that the price increase would be put on hold while it addresses regulatory concerns.

With 24 million internet users, the company assured customers who had already been charged the increased rate that they would receive a credit.

It also reminded users of the 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.

The company raised its monthly subscription by 97 per cent three weeks ago, from N38,000 to N75,000, prompting customer complaints about the steep cost.

Starlink had also raised the price of its installation kit for new users to N590,000 from N440,000, a 34 per cent increase.

According to a brief message addressed to media outlets, the Nigerian Communications Commission had withdrawn its statement regarding Starlink’s operations.

The NCC acknowledged that the statement was released in error, urging editors and journalists to retract any related publications.

“Kindly note that this press statement on Starlink was issued in error. It is hereby WITHDRAWN. If already published, kindly BRING DOWN,” the message, signed by the NCC’s Manager of Media Relations, Kunle Azeez, stated.

The mobile operators, under the aegis of the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria, through its Chairman, Gbenga Adebayo, also condemned the decision, citing “regulatory affront.”

MTN introduces recyclable SIM cards to promote sustainability in Nigeria

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that technology company MTN Nigeria announced the introduction of paper-based, biodegradable, eco-friendly SIM cards in line with its Project Zero goals to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and achieve net zero emissions by 2040.

According to the company, the biodegradable paper-based SIM card is safer for the environment, as it supports the management of products throughout their lifecycle in a manner that promotes circularity and reduces waste.