Starlink, a satellite
internet service provider, is rapidly gaining ground in Nigeria's data market,
seeking to catch up with leading telecom giants. According to the latest data
from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Starlink's active subscriber
base in Nigeria grew to 23,897 in the fourth quarter of 2023, representing a
113% increase from the previous quarter.
Despite being a
relatively new entrant in the market, Starlink has generated significant
interest due to its reliable internet access in areas with poor network
coverage. Its ability to provide internet services in hard-to-reach areas has
allowed it to quickly surpass many local ISPs that have been in operation for
years.
To attract more
customers, Starlink has reduced the price of its router by 45%, from N800,000
to N440,000, although the monthly subscription fee remains at N38,000. This
move is seen as an attempt to catch up with leading telecom giants in Nigeria,
which have a large customer base and extensive network coverage.
The NCC's database
reveals that there are 245 licensed ISPs in Nigeria, but only 106 have active
customers, with a cumulative total of 262,206 active users. In contrast, the
country's four major mobile network operators - MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and
9mobile - have a combined total of 163.8 million active internet subscriptions.
Starlink's rapid growth
and innovative approach are forcing traditional ISPs to re-examine their
services and competitiveness. To keep pace with this new entrant, local ISPs
will need to enhance their services and offer more value to customers.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
