Starlink Increases Monthly Subscription by 97% in Nigeria
Starlink, the satellite-based internet service owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has announced a significant increase in its monthly subscription fees for customers in Nigeria. The standard service plan has surged from ₦38,000 to ₦75,000 per month—marking a steep 97% hike. Other service plans have also seen considerable price adjustments, with the mobile regional (Roam Unlimited) plan now priced at ₦167,000, and the mobile global roaming package reaching a hefty ₦717,000.
This price hike, according to Starlink, will affect both existing and new customers. While the new rates are already in effect for new subscribers, existing customers will experience the price change from October 31, 2024.
Why Has Starlink Increased Its Subscription Fees in Nigeria?
Starlink explained that the driving force behind this increase is Nigeria’s high inflation rate. The company stated that “excessive levels of inflation” in the country have made it necessary to align their pricing with current economic realities. In a message to its Nigerian customers, Starlink said:
“Due to excessive levels of inflation, the Starlink monthly service price will increase from current rates to the respective rates below:
- Standard (Residential): ₦75,000
- Mobile-Regional (Roam Unlimited): ₦167,000
- Mobile-Global (Global Roam): ₦717,000
Your monthly service price will increase in 1 month, starting from 31 October, 2024. For new customers, the price increase takes place immediately.”
While the new prices have raised concerns among many users, Starlink has emphasized that customers who wish to cancel their subscriptions can do so at any time without penalties.
A Quick Recap: Starlink’s Journey in Nigeria
Starlink officially launched in Nigeria on January 31, 2023, making the country the first in Africa to offer the high-speed satellite internet service. At its launch, the monthly subscription rate was ₦19,260, while the hardware required for installation—comprising the satellite dish, mounting tripod, and Wi-Fi router—cost ₦268,584.
Starlink is designed to provide high-speed internet access to underserved, rural, and remote areas globally. Its introduction to Nigeria was seen as a significant step towards solving the connectivity challenges in areas where traditional broadband services were either unavailable or unreliable.
Implications of the Price Hike for Nigerian Users
The substantial increase in Starlink subscription fees is likely to be a barrier for many potential and existing users in Nigeria. While the service continues to offer unmatched high-speed internet in remote locations where other providers struggle, the new rates may deter individuals and businesses with lower incomes from subscribing. This could especially affect those living in rural areas, the very demographic Starlink aims to serve.
Nevertheless, Starlink remains one of the most reliable options for users in locations without standard broadband infrastructure. The promise of uninterrupted internet access, even in the most remote areas, still positions Starlink as a critical player in Nigeria’s growing digital landscape.
While Starlink’s recent price increase may seem prohibitive to many, it is a reflection of the current economic climate and inflation rates in Nigeria. The service still holds tremendous potential for those seeking high-speed, reliable internet in areas lacking traditional connectivity options. However, with the new pricing, the challenge will be making it accessible to a wider audience.
For Nigerians keen on experiencing reliable satellite-based internet services, Starlink remains a viable option—though now at a higher cost. The company’s focus on expansion, coupled with its advanced technology, ensures that it will continue to play a significant role in bridging the digital divide, especially in remote and underserved areas.
If you’re considering Starlink or are an existing customer, take note of the changes and adjust your budget accordingly. If the new prices are beyond your reach, the option to cancel without any penalty offers a way out.
Stay tuned for more updates as Starlink continues to shape the future of internet connectivity in Nigeria and beyond.
