Inauguration of new Governor of St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha

17 August 2022

Council, Government, Press Release

AIG is pleased to announce the inauguration on 13 August of Mr Nigel Phillips CBE as the next Governor of St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha.

Governor Phillips is accompanied by his wife Emma. He succeeds the previous Governor Dr Philip Rushbrook.

Once in post he will be aiming to undertake his first visit to Ascension as soon as is practical.

On his appointment, Mr Phillips said:

“It is a privilege, and a humbling one at that, to swear the oath of office to serve the communities of St Helena, Ascension Island and Tristan da Cunha as Governor.  Each of the three Islands are remarkable in their own right, with extraordinary natural environments, cultures and history.  I am in no doubt that it is the people who live in the three Islands who are best able to judge the path ahead and I look forward to learning from you.

“Emma and I have not before visited any of the three Islands, but I do feel we know a little about St Helena thanks to the Saint community on the Falklands and the unique nature of small Island communities.  I can say only that we relish the opportunity to make this our home for the duration of our tenure. We know of the friendliness that typifies this community and we want to play our part. Let me also be clear that I absolutely want to visit Ascension and Tristan da Cunha as soon as I am able.”

Governor Phillips was sworn in on the 13 August 2022, just after 16:00, in front of the Court House in Jamestown. The Chief Secretary Mrs Susan O’Bey read the Royal Commission. The Chief Minister Mrs Julie Thomas gave a welcome speech and spoke about the uniqueness of the Islands and the many challenges facing a small island developing state. The Sheriff of St Helena Mrs Ethel Yon OBE administered the Oaths of Office and gave the Address of Welcome.

If you would like any further information on this issue please get in touch with the Administrator’s office or the Governor’s office on St Helena.

Photos courtesy of SHG Press Office