Chief Executive Officer of Bellagio Airlines, Dr. Oludare Akande OON, has given glowing praise to the professionalism, training, and discipline of former Virgin Nigeria Airways staff, describing them as custodians of an enduring professional legacy that continues to shape aviation today.
He gave the commendation during a reunion of ex-Virgin Nigeria employees in Lagos, noting that their professional legacy remains unmatched in Nigeria’s aviation industry and stands as a model for today’s workforce.
According to him, the airline’s former staff remain the true pillars of the sector’s success, having set the benchmark for excellence.
“What we found in terms of training, professionalism, and work ethic is that any of the best talents you pull into the industry today comes from Virgin. Please give yourselves another round of applause,” Akande declared to loud cheers.
He explained that the strength of Virgin Nigeria was never just in its aircraft or routes, but in the dedication and discipline of the people who worked under its banner. “You once flew the flag of Nigeria as a domestic and international airline. The training and work ethic you got at Virgin really transcends to this generation. I’ve interviewed head of departments, engineers, cabin crew, and I can tell you, everybody has a flavor of Virgin Nigeria. I am particularly proud,” he added.
Akande expressed confidence that the airline’s founder, Sir Richard Branson, would be proud of the continued impact of the staff who once carried the Virgin Nigeria identity with pride and dignity. “The airline business is not just about the aircraft, engineers, avionics, the AOC, or cabin services. It’s about the people and you are the people. Please appreciate yourself one more time,” he said, reinforcing his emotional tribute to their professional legacy.
Virgin Nigeria Airways, launched in 2004 in partnership with Virgin Atlantic, quickly became Nigeria’s flagship carrier and a source of national pride. Although it later rebranded as Nigerian Eagle and Air Nigeria before its eventual collapse, the airline built a reputation for unmatched training and professionalism.
Many of its alumni now hold leadership roles across Nigerian and international airlines, continuing to influence the industry with the same discipline and skills that defined Virgin Nigeria. That enduring professional legacy has become a standard for new generations of aviation professionals.
The reunion, tagged Virgin Unite, drew former staff across departments including cabin crew, engineers, and ground operations as well as others from all over the country and region. The reunion was coordinated by a committee featuring Michael Chikeka, Emem Ettete, Joy Ogbebo (MamaJ), Anthony Ukachukwu, Davids Odeyemi and Yewande Towoboa.
The evening ended on a high note, with pride and joy evident among participants. More than just a social gathering, it was a celebration of unity, resilience, and the powerful professional legacy left behind by Virgin Nigeria staff a legacy that continues to inspire Nigeria’s aviation industry today.
