Starlink increases subscription price in Nigeria by 97%, raising its monthly cost from N38,000 to N75,000. For new users, the cost of the Starlink kits (hardware) also increased by 34%, from N440,000 to N590,000. This marks the second time Starlink has raised its subscription rates, citing “excessive inflation” as the main reason.
In a message to its customers in Nigeria, Starlink explained that the new pricing will take effect for current customers on October 31, 2024. However, for new customers, the price hike is immediate. The company also announced different rates for its other services, including N167,000 for Mobile-Regional (Roam Unlimited) and N717,000 for Mobile-Global (Global Roam).
Starlink stated in the message:
“Due to excessive levels of inflation, the Starlink monthly service price will increase from current rates to the respective rates below: Standard (Residential): N75,000; Mobile-Regional: N167,000; Mobile-Global: N717,000.”
Starlink Gaining Popularity Despite Higher Prices
Despite the significant price increase, Starlink has been gaining traction in Nigeria. Since announcing its official presence in January 2023, it has attracted a large number of customers eager for better internet service. Although Starlink’s costs are higher than many local ISPs, its satellite service provides coverage in remote areas with poor internet networks. This has made it a popular choice for users seeking reliable connectivity.
According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Starlink is now the third-largest internet service provider (ISP) in Nigeria. As of Q4 2023, Starlink had 23,897 customers, surpassing many local ISPs that have been operating in the country for years but have fewer subscribers.
Despite the significant price increase, Starlink has been gaining traction in Nigeria. Since announcing its official presence in January 2023, it has attracted a large number of customers eager for better internet service. Although Starlink’s costs are higher than many local ISPs, its satellite service provides coverage in remote areas with poor internet networks. This has made it a popular choice for users seeking reliable connectivity.
According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Starlink is now the third-largest internet service provider (ISP) in Nigeria. As of Q4 2023, Starlink had 23,897 customers, surpassing many local ISPs that have been operating in the country for years but have fewer subscribers.
Despite the significant price increase, Starlink has been gaining traction in Nigeria. Since announcing its official presence in January 2023, it has attracted a large number of customers eager for better internet service. Although Starlink’s costs are higher than many local ISPs, its satellite service provides coverage in remote areas with poor internet networks. This has made it a popular choice for users seeking reliable connectivity.
According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Starlink is now the third-largest internet service provider (ISP) in Nigeria. As of Q4 2023, Starlink had 23,897 customers, surpassing many local ISPs that have been operating in the country for years but have fewer subscribers.
Starlink’s prices have fluctuated since its entry into the Nigerian market. Initially, the hardware and subscription were priced in dollars at $600 and $43 respectively, before switching to naira when the service launched. At first, the hardware cost N268,584, while the monthly subscription stood at N19,260, based on an official exchange rate of N450/$1.
However, as the naira weakened and exchange rates unified, prices shot up to N378,000 for the hardware and N38,000 for the monthly subscription. Starlink has also made multiple changes to its pricing, including slashing hardware costs by 21% between October and November last year, only to revert to higher prices later. The latest hike follows a similar pattern of price adjustments.
What Customers Should Know About Starlink’s Price Increase
Although officially, Starlink increases subscription price in Nigeria, the company allows customers to cancel their service at any time. This flexibility may help retain some customers despite the steep price increase. However, for those in areas with limited internet options, Starlink’s reliable satellite service may still be worth the cost.
