The Association of Licensed Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ALTON) has criticized Starlink’s recent decision to raise internet subscription prices without prior approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), calling it a serious breach of regulatory authority.
Just two weeks ago, Starlink, owned by Elon Musk, increased its monthly subscription fees by 97%, from N38,000 to N75,000, while also hiking hardware kit prices by 34%, from N440,000 to N590,000. With nearly 24,000 subscribers, as reported by the NCC in May, Starlink attributed these price adjustments to “excessive inflation.”
ALTON Chairman Gbenga Adebayo emphasized the importance of regulatory compliance in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector to maintain stability. He underscored that telecom operators are required to obtain NCC approval before implementing any tariff changes.
“We reached out to the NCC, and they confirmed that no approval was granted. The regulatory framework stipulates that no provider can unilaterally raise prices without the Commission’s consent. This violation not only breaches established rules but also undermines the authority of the Commission,” Adebayo stated.
The NCC has also condemned Starlink’s price increase, asserting it violates Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003, as well as conditions of Starlink’s operating license. In a statement, the Commission noted that they were “surprised” by the company’s announcement, as Starlink had filed a request for a price adjustment that had yet to be approved.
As Nigeria’s third-largest internet service provider, Starlink’s price hike has raised concerns about its impact on internet affordability and access. Following the NCC’s withdrawal of its initial condemnation of the price increase—citing an error—the regulator has yet to clarify its position.
Meanwhile, major mobile operators such as MTN, Airtel, and Globacom have been seeking approval to increase their tariffs for the first time in 11 years, but the NCC has yet to grant this. The regulator has encouraged operators to explore innovative strategies to sustain their businesses while a long-term solution to their requests is developed.
Commenting on the situation, Adebayo stated that telcos are actively engaging with stakeholders to address sustainability concerns in the telecommunications.
