ATCON Urges Review of Starlink Operations for Fair Competition

The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has called for a comprehensive review of Starlink’s operations in Nigeria to ensure a level playing field for both local and foreign telecom operators. This follows the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) decision to sanction Starlink for implementing unapproved subscription price increases.

ATCON President, Tony Emoekpere, raised concerns over Starlink’s business model, which allows the company to operate in Nigeria without significant local infrastructure investment, unlike domestic operators who have heavily invested in the country.

 “Starlink’s decision to raise prices without regulatory approval puts local operators at a disadvantage,” Emoekpere said. “While competition is encouraged, it must be fair and comply with the same regulatory framework.”

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He added that Starlink’s pricing model, tied to international benchmarks, creates an uneven playing field and exerts undue pressure on Nigerian telecom companies.

“Local operators, who have invested in Nigeria, are subject to stricter regulatory oversight. Competing with foreign entities that benchmark against the dollar creates a serious challenge,” he stated.

Emoekpere urged the government to review Starlink’s licensing conditions to ensure that all telecom operators, whether foreign or local, contribute equally to Nigeria’s economy.

“We must reassess Starlink’s license and require them to localize their operations. Otherwise, we risk creating an unfair advantage that could harm local players,” he concluded.