Starlink, the satellite internet service owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, is recording strong growth in Nigeria and other African countries. The service is transforming how people access the internet, particularly in areas with limited broadband infrastructure.
This article examines Starlink’s rise in Nigeria, its expansion across Africa, and the challenges it encounters.
ALSO READ: Starlink in Ghana
Starlink Becomes a Top ISP in Nigeria
Starlink has become Nigeria’s second-largest internet service provider by active subscribers. According to data from the Nigerian Communications Commission, the service had 65,564 subscribers as of September 2024.
This figure represents almost three times the number of users recorded at the end of 2023. Starlink launched in Nigeria in early 2023 and has grown faster than many traditional providers.
Reliable internet access is the key driver of this growth. Many users report better speed and uptime compared to local broadband services.
More details about Starlink’s service can be found on its official website:
https://www.starlink.com
Why Nigerians Are Choosing Starlink
Starlink is not cheap. A standard Starlink kit in Lagos sells for about ₦590,000, excluding delivery costs. Monthly subscription fees are also higher than local alternatives.
Local fibre and fixed wireless services cost much less. Despite this, many Nigerians still choose Starlink.
Users value speed, stability, and nationwide coverage. Businesses, remote workers, and tech professionals prefer reliable connections over lower prices. For many, Starlink solves long-standing connectivity problems.
Starlink’s Expansion Across Africa
Starlink is currently active in 19 African countries. The company plans to enter 15 more African markets in 2025.
Key markets include Kenya, Rwanda, Malawi, and Mozambique. In many of these countries, Starlink fills gaps left by weak terrestrial infrastructure.
A full list of supported African countries is available here:
https://www.starlink.com/map
Governments and consumers see Starlink as a tool for improving digital inclusion, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Criticism and Regulatory Challenges
Starlink’s growth has not been without criticism. Local telecom operators argue that the company has an unfair advantage. Starlink does not invest heavily in ground infrastructure like fibre networks or cell towers.
In South Africa, regulatory issues have slowed progress. Authorities require foreign telecom companies to allocate at least 30 per cent local ownership to historically disadvantaged groups. Starlink has not agreed to this condition, delaying its launch in the country.
Regulatory details can be found through South Africa’s communications authority:
https://www.icasa.org.za
