Due to delayed regulatory permissions, satellite internet provider Starlink has announced that it has halted new orders for its home kits in Nigeria.
Residential kits include the satellite dish, router, and cables needed for home users to connect to Starlink’s satellite internet service. According to our source, on Wednesday, when clients tried to place purchases on the company’s website, the suspension became apparent. A notice stating that the stop was caused by outstanding regulatory permissions is now displayed on the website.
The information states: “We’re committed to providing high-speed internet in Nigeria and are working closely with regulators to make adjustments that will improve the customer experience.
“Until these changes are approved, we are placing new residential orders on hold. Place a deposit now to reserve your Starlink, and you will receive a notification once orders resume,” it added.
Citing The Punch reporter, they called the Nigerian Communications Commission, but Reuben Mouka, the Director of Public Affairs, did not answer.
The firm tried to increase the monthly membership fees by 97% in October, from N38,000 to N75,000. The provider, however, changed its mind after the NCC intervened.
According to the telecom authority reached by BrandSpur telecom and IT news desk, the internet company broke the terms of its operating licence and Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003. However, since Starlink retracted their pricing increase, the NCC has not made any additional comments. With more than 23,000 customers by the end of 2023, Starlink will have grown to become the third-largest ISP in Nigeria.
Two weeks ago, the business halted new sign-ups in a number of African towns due to excessive demand.
Elon Musk, the owner of Starlink, addressed worries about capacity limitations in cities by confirming this in a post on X (previously Twitter). Musk penned: “Starlink is working to increase internet capacity in dense urban areas in Africa as fast as possible. Please note that there is still significant capacity outside of city centres.”
