British carrier Virgin Atlantic marked 25 years of continuous operations in Nigeria by hosting a high-profile awards evening in Lagos, honoring the local travel agencies and partners whose dedication has fueled its quarter-century journey in the country.
Hosted at The George Lagos Hotel on Thursday, 22 October 2026, the milestone gathering brought together senior airline executives, industry stakeholders, and prominent travel professionals to reflect on a legacy that commenced in July 2001 with four weekly flights between London and Lagos using a Boeing 747.
What did airline executives say about the Nigerian market?
Addressing the audience, Virgin Atlantic’s Chief Commercial Officer, Dave Geer, underscored Nigeria's strategic significance within the carrier's global network, expressing deep gratitude to customers, employees, and trade collaborators.
"Technology will never replace relationships. The trust, local knowledge, and customer understanding represented in this room remain fundamental to our success," Geer remarked during the evening.
Geer also highlighted the airline's ongoing focus on fostering sustainable commercial alliances, nurturing client relationships, and ensuring that future capital investments deliver long-term value.
Echoing similar sentiments, the airline’s Country Manager for West Africa, Yann Stirton, praised the steadfastness of Nigerian travel partners amidst various macroeconomic hurdles, including foreign exchange fluctuations and inventory adjustments.
In a notable commercial revelation, Stirton shared that ticket sales originating within Nigeria now generate higher revenue for the Lagos route than any other global market, surpassing even the United Kingdom.
"When I arrived in Lagos in September 2023, most of the revenue on this route was sold in the UK. Today, more revenue on this route is sold here in Nigeria than anywhere else in the world," Stirton stated. "That didn’t happen by accident. It happened because of the people in this room."
Which travel partners were recognized?
A central feature of the celebration was the presentation of accolades to agencies that demonstrated exceptional commercial performance, digital innovation, and steadfast client advocacy.
ALML Travels and Tours clinched the coveted High-Value Partner of the Year award, while Wakanow.com received honors for Digital Innovation alongside the Agent of the Year – Retail title. Additionally, Touchdown Travels was named Best Performing – TMC within the travel management company category.
Further recognition went to 247 Travels for best retail performance, Cinderella Travels for securing the Best Revenue Growth award, and both FCM Travels and Ajala Travels, which jointly received the Rising Partner accolade.
What is next for Virgin Atlantic in Nigeria?
Looking toward the future, Geer reiterated the carrier's dedication to elevating the passenger experience through continuous investments in modern aircraft, upgraded premium cabins, and enhanced inflight connectivity.
As part of an ambitious $17 billion fleet modernization initiative, Virgin Atlantic aims to operate 45 next-generation aircraft by 2028. This program includes cabin refurbishments for its Boeing 787-9 fleet, the addition of new Airbus A330neo aircraft, and the rollout of complimentary, high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi across all flights by 2027.
As it embarks on its next chapter in Nigeria, Virgin Atlantic remains steadfast in strengthening its trade partnerships, solidifying its market standing, and delivering superior service to travelers.