In celebration of Ascension Day, the National Day of Ascension, His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Nigel Phillips CBE, and his wife Emma, extend their warmest wishes to everyone on Ascension Island celebrating Ascension Day, including those celebrating at the Ascension Day Fair on Saturday.
The Governor is also honoured to share the following message with the Ascension Island community from His Majesty The King.
““Dear Governor,
As the people of Ascension Island mark the occasion of Ascension Day, my wife and I would like to take this opportunity to extend our sincere congratulations to the Ascension Island Council, and to all those who call Ascension their home.
I have long held a special affection for the Overseas Territories, and I greatly value the
unique character, traditions and contributions of each Territory within our wider British family. Ascension’s strength of community, pride in heritage and commitment to progress are qualities that I deeply admire. I have been delighted to hear of the successful transition this year to Ascension Island Mobile with the support of Omnitouch, and the ongoing response to the Hantavirus major incident is a testament to Ascension Island’s admirable resilience.
Amid today’s environmental challenges, Ascension’s commitment to safeguarding its natural heritage is a powerful reminder of the importance of sustainability and collective action in support of conservation. This is reflected most clearly in Ascension’s vital contribution to the recovery of green turtles, now reclassified from Endangered to Least Concern, and the establishment of the red-footed booby colony on mainland Ascension, whose first chick fledged in January.
My wife and I trust that the coming year will bring continued progress and wellbeing to the community of Ascension Island.
Charles R.”
Office of the Administrator
14 May 2026