Starlink has made a triumphant return to the bustling streets of Lagos, Nigeria, after a seven-month hiatus that left many eager customers waiting in anticipation. The company recently announced the resumption of direct shipments of residential kits to Lagos and other Nigerian cities, signaling a renewed commitment to expanding its footprint in Africa’s largest market by subscriber base.
The excitement doesn’t stop there – Starlink has also unveiled a brand-new walk-in office in the vibrant Victoria Island district of Lagos. This move represents a strategic shift for the company as it seeks to enhance its presence and customer service in Nigeria, a market where it has already garnered over 64,000 active users, making it the second-largest internet service provider in the country.
The journey for Starlink in Nigeria began in early 2023 when it first set up operations at Ivie House on Ajose Adeogun Street in Lagos. Since then, the company has seen a steady rise in adoption, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas where traditional broadband services are scarce or unreliable. Its ability to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet to remote regions has been instrumental in bridging Nigeria’s digital divide, offering a lifeline to those underserved by traditional infrastructure.
“The reinstatement of direct hardware shipments will empower more Nigerians to access reliable internet connectivity, ultimately driving economic growth and innovation across the country,”
shared a Starlink representative.
One of the key hurdles Starlink faced in Nigeria was navigating regulatory reviews and approvals from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), particularly regarding pricing adjustments. However, with these bottlenecks gradually easing, the company has now reintroduced direct hardware shipments, allowing customers to order setup kits conveniently through its official website or authorized retailers within the country.
In a bid to manage congestion in high-demand areas like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, Starlink has introduced an additional activation fee of ₦80,000 ($52.24), bringing the total cost of the residential kit to ₦690,000 (approximately $455). This move aims to ensure a smoother experience for users in densely populated zones, while cities outside these major hubs are exempt from the activation fee. The monthly subscription fee remains unchanged at ₦57,000 (about $38), with the option to opt for the more portable Starlink mini kit priced at ₦318,000 (around $210).
The launch of the walk-in office on Victoria Island underscores Starlink’s commitment to enhancing customer support and engagement. While the physical center will serve as an information hub, hardware purchases will continue to be processed online and through approved retailers, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for customers.
As Starlink deepens its roots in Nigeria, the prospects for wider African expansion loom on the horizon. With the country grappling with connectivity challenges such as fiber vandalism, erratic power supply, and outdated infrastructure, satellite internet emerges as a compelling alternative to traditional broadband services. Starlink’s success in Nigeria could pave the way for a broader continental expansion, leveraging the country as a strategic launchpad for future growth in the region.
In conclusion, Starlink’s return to direct shipments in Lagos and the opening of a new office in Victoria Island mark significant milestones in the company’s journey to connect communities and drive digital inclusion in Nigeria. As the company continues to innovate and expand its reach, the impact of its services goes beyond providing internet access – it is about transforming lives, empowering businesses, and shaping the future of connectivity in Africa.
Leave feedback about this