Elon Musk’s Starlink to Hike Internet Prices in Nigeria Starting January
Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite-based internet service, has announced a new wave of subscription price increases. The updated pricing takes effect immediately for new customers while existing users will experience the changes starting January 27, 2025.
In an email sent to subscribers on Friday, Starlink explained that the adjustment is aimed at enhancing its network infrastructure and maintaining the delivery of high-quality internet services across the country.
The revised pricing structure is as follows:
- Standard (Residential): ₦75,000 per month
- Mobile – Regional (Roam Unlimited): ₦167,000 per month
- Mobile – Global (Global Roam): ₦717,000 per month
“These changes reflect our commitment to investing in the infrastructure needed to support and improve your experience with Starlink,” the company stated in the email.
For users dissatisfied with the new pricing, the company highlighted that subscribers could cancel their subscriptions anytime.
Also Read: NCC Withdraws Statement on Elon Musk’s Starlink Operations
This isn’t the first time Elon Musk’s Starlink has raised eyebrows with its pricing in Nigeria. In September 2023, the company attempted a sharp 97% hike, increasing the monthly fee for its standard plan from ₦38,000 to ₦75,000. The move was criticized widely, with Starlink citing inflation as the primary driver.
Initially, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) threatened sanctions against Starlink for implementing the price increase without regulatory approval. However, the NCC later withdrew its statement, leaving subscribers confused about the regulatory landscape. Following public backlash, Starlink temporarily paused the hike and issued credits to affected customers while resolving regulatory concerns.
Since its launch in December 2022, Starlink has been celebrated for bringing internet access to underserved and remote areas in Nigeria, the first African country to benefit from the service. However, its pricing model has faced criticism for being out of reach for many Nigerians, especially as the country grapples with widespread economic hardship.
The latest price increase raises pressing questions about the affordability and accessibility of Starlink’s service.
