NCC Withdraws Statement on Elon Musk’s Starlink Operations

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has officially retracted its recent press statement concerning Starlink, the satellite internet service provider. The announcement, which had initially raised eyebrows in the media landscape, was deemed a mistake, prompting the communications commission to urge journalists to remove any related articles.

In a brief message sent to media outlets on Tuesday, October 8, the NCC clarified: “Kindly note that this press statement on Starlink was issued in error. It is hereby WITHDRAWN. If already published, kindly BRING DOWN.” The statement was signed by Kunle Azeez, the NCC’s Manager of Media Relations.

This retraction follows a controversial announcement by the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, who had indicated plans to take enforcement measures against Starlink for increasing its subscription prices without prior approval from the commission. Last week, Starlink informed its customers that subscription fees would see a staggering 97% hike—from N38,000 to N75,000—affecting both existing and new users alike.

Moreover, the cost for the Starlink kit, essential for installation, surged by 34%, now priced at N590,000, up from N440,000. In response, Muoka emphasized that Starlink’s decision to unilaterally adjust its subscription fees was not sanctioned by the NCC.

“The decision by Starlink to review its subscription packages upwards did not receive the approval of the Nigerian Communications Commission,” he stated, expressing the commission’s surprise at the price changes.