The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced its intention to take enforcement measures against Starlink, the satellite internet service owned by Elon Musk, for implementing an unauthorised tariff hike. This decision follows Starlink’s recent increase in subscription prices without obtaining the necessary approval from the NCC.
In a statement issued by the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, the commission expressed its surprise and concern over Starlink’s unilateral decision to raise prices. The monthly subscription fee for Starlink’s standard residential plan has been increased by 97%, from N38,000 to N75,000.
“The decision by Starlink to unilaterally review its subscription packages upwards did not receive the approval of the Nigerian Communications Commission,” said Muoka. “This action appears to contravene Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, as well as Starlink’s Licence Conditions regarding tariffs.”
Section 108 of the NCA 2003 mandates that no licensee can impose charges for services without obtaining tariff approval from the NCC. Furthermore, Section 111 empowers the NCC to impose financial penalties on any licensee that exceeds approved tariffs.
The NCC emphasized its commitment to maintaining regulatory stability within the telecommunications industry and warned that it would take appropriate enforcement measures against any actions by licensees that undermine this stability.
The commission is currently reviewing the situation and will announce specific sanctions against Starlink in due course.