Satellite internet service Starlink has informed its Nigerian customers that it will be raising monthly subscription prices, with the new rates set to take effect on January 27, 2025. New subscribers will immediately pay the adjusted prices, while existing customers will see the changes reflected in their upcoming bills.

In an email to users, Starlink explained that the price hike is necessary to "continue enhancing the Starlink network and provide reliable, high-quality service across Nigeria." The company attributed the increase to its ongoing commitment to investing in the infrastructure needed to improve customer experience.

Under the new pricing structure, the lowest subscription tier will increase significantly from ₦38,000 to ₦75,000 per month. Additionally, the mobile global roaming service will now cost ₦717,000 monthly. This marks the second time Starlink has attempted a price hike in Nigeria. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) rejected its previous increase in October, citing the company's failure to seek necessary regulatory approval.

However, the NCC is set to approve an increase in the first quarter of 2025, a development first reported by TechCabal. Starlink's email to customers suggests that the company is preparing for this timeline to align with the anticipated regulatory changes. For years, Nigerian telecom operators have been lobbying for tariff increases but have faced challenges in gaining approval from the NCC.

The latest development may signal a broader shift in pricing strategies for satellite and telecom services in Nigeria, impacting both consumers and the competitive landscape. As the Nigerian internet market continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how this price hike will affect Starlink's customer base and the overall industry.

With the NCC's impending approval of tariff increases, it is likely that other telecom operators will follow suit, leading to a potential reshaping of the Nigerian internet market. As consumers prepare for the new pricing structure, they will be closely watching how Starlink and other operators adapt to the changing regulatory landscape.

In the context of Nigeria's growing internet market, this development highlights the ongoing challenges faced by telecom operators in balancing infrastructure investments with customer affordability. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for operators to strike a balance between providing reliable services and maintaining competitive pricing.