The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced its intention to take enforcement measures against satellite internet provider, Starlink, for unilaterally increasing its subscription prices in Nigeria without regulatory approval.
This was disclosed in a statement released by the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, on Tuesday.
The commission cited Starlink’s actions as a violation of Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, as well as the conditions of its operating licence. According to Muoka, the unapproved price hike poses a threat to regulatory stability in the telecommunications sector.
“We were surprised that the company jumped the gun by announcing price changes after filing a request to the Commission seeking approval for price adjustment for which the Commission was yet to communicate a decision,” Muoka stated. He further emphasized that the NCC is committed to maintaining regulatory order, adding, “The Commission will, therefore, take appropriate enforcement measures against any action by a licensee that is capable of eroding the regulatory stability of the telecommunications industry.”
Under the NCA 2003, Section 108 grants the NCC the authority to regulate telecom tariffs, prohibiting licensees from imposing service charges without prior approval. Section 111 empowers the commission to impose financial penalties on companies that exceed approved rates.
The controversy arose when Starlink, in a message to its customers last week, announced a 97% increase in its monthly subscription fee from N38,000 to N75,000. Additionally, the cost of the Starlink kit required for installation rose by 34%, from N440,000 to N590,000.
The NCC has signaled its intent to take corrective action, stressing that regulatory compliance is essential for maintaining the stability and integrity of Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.
