While the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has been widely reported as dismissing speculations that it plans an upward review of tariffs by January next year, it does seem as though one operator, satellite internet service Starlink, will have its planned tariff increase approved.
The NCC has insisted that the procedures regarding hikes in tariffs are rigorous, data-driven and evidence-based, blaming some mobile operators for speculation on the subject.
As the Nation news service notes, a source points out that for now the Commission does not have a Management Board to approve such review. In any case, after approval a study would need to be carried out, along with a stakeholder engagement process and other inputs. There would then need to be the announcement of a timeframe for implementation to allow everyone to be prepared for the increase.
It's also been suggested that, based on a 2013 review, operators still have windows to increase tariffs on their own, though the Nation’s source suggests the aim is for the NCC or government to raise prices and get the blame.
Nevertheless, naira devaluation has been an issue for operators this year, along with operational costs, notably the cost of diesel for standby power.
Meanwhile satellite internet service Starlink has informed its Nigerian customers that it will raise monthly subscription prices, with the new rates set to take effect on 27 January 2025.
The NCC rejected Starlink’s previous increase in October on the grounds that the company had not sought the necessary regulatory approval. Now, however, news reports suggest that the NCC is set to approve an increase in the first quarter of 2025.
