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Virgin Atlantic to axe Nigeria brand
Tuesday, June 09, 2009 Virgin Atlantic is to scrap its Virgin Nigeria brand and sell its 49% stake in the African country’s national carrier, according to reports.  The BBC has revealed that Virgin Atlantic’s relationship with Virgin Nigeria – launched five years ago – went into freefall after President Umar Yar’Adua was elected in 2007. Sir Richard Branson’s airline had brokered a $25 million deal with the previous incumbent, President Olusegun Obasanjo, after Nigerian Airways collapsed amid allegations of corruption. A Virgin Atlantic source is claimed to have said Virgin Nigeria has until July to rebrand. Last year President Umar scrapped a deal which had allowed Virgin Nigeria to operate domestic flights from Lagos airport. Branson (pictured) accused the Nigerian government of “Mafioso tactics” after henchmen reportedly smashed up the airline’s lounge. Virgin Atlantic will continue to operate services between London Heathrow and Lagos airport. • Win Virgin flights to New York (5 Jun 2009)
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