Elon Musk stated in a Twitter post that U.S SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet network will officially launch operations in Nigeria next August.
A starter kit and monthly subscriptions – whose values are not yet announced – will be required for access to its satellite internet services. SpaceX sells its starter kits in the U.S. for US$599, but its monthly subscriptions cost US$110 in Nigeria, according to the company's website.
As part of its African expansion plan, Starlink began exploring the Nigerian telecom market in May 2021. It also targeted South Africa and Zimbabwe, among other markets. It was awarded two licenses by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) a year later. Also, the company received a 10-year international gateway license and a five-year Internet Service Provider (ISP) license. Through the constellation of over 2,000 satellites orbiting the Earth, it is able to provide high-speed Internet connectivity.
Through the official launch of its operations in Nigeria, Starlink will provide broadband access to every Nigerian, including those living in remote and landlocked areas. As part of the Nigerian government's digital transformation plan, the company is expected to contribute to the goal of covering 90% of the country with broadband by 2025. However, this ambition could be slowed by the cost of services, which is out of reach for the average Nigerian, especially if they are living in rural areas.
