Victor EzejaThe Commission made this known in a statement signed by its Director, Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, released on Tuesday, 8 October.
It said news of the data tariff hike by Starlink came as a surprise to the Commission just as many Nigerian subscribers were also taken aback by the development.
According to the NCC, Starlink merely submitted a request to the Commission seeking approval for adjustment of subscription price but didn’t get approval before going ahead to announce an increase in subscription price.
The Commission pointed out that the action of the tech company violates provisions of Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, and Starlink’s Licence Conditions regarding tariffs.
NCC said it commenced what it called “pre-enforcement action” on the licensee on the 3rd of October, 2024.
“The decision by Starlink to unilaterally review its subscription packages upwards did not receive the approval of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
“The action of the company is in contravention of Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA), 2003, and Starlink’s Licence Conditions regarding tariffs.
Join our WhatsApp Channel “The Commission commenced pre-enforcement action on the licensee on the 3rd of October, 2024.”Prime Business Africa had reported that Starlink announced a 97 per cent increase in its subscription price from N38,000 to N75,000 for Residential plan per month with effect from 31 October 2024.
In a message to its customers, Starlink blamed the decision to increase the price on high inflation in the country.
“Due to excessive levels of inflation, the Starlink monthly service price will increase from current rates to the respective rates below: Standard (Residential): N75,000; Mobile- Regional (Roam Unlimited): 167,000; Mobile – Global (Global Roam): N717,000,” a message from Starlink to its customers in Nigeria read.
“As a current customer, your monthly service price will increase in 1 month, beginning 31 October 2024. For new customers, the price increase is effective immediately.”
“If you do not wish to continue your service, you can cancel at any time.”
The Internet service provider which launched in Nigeria in 2023, also increased the price of its hardware by 34 per cent from N440,000 to N590 000.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with six years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Masters degree in Mass Communication.
