Nigel Dakin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Nigel Dakin
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| 15th Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands | |
| In office 15 July 2019 – 29 March 2023 |
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| Monarch | Elizabeth II Charles III |
| Premier | Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson Washington Misick |
| Deputy | Anya Williams |
| Preceded by | John Freeman |
| Succeeded by | Anya Williams (acting) Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 28 February 1964 United Kingdom |
| Spouse | Amanda Dakin |
| Residences | Waterloo, Grand Turk |
| Alma mater | University of Birmingham (BA) Kingston University (MBA) |
Nigel John Dakin was born on February 28, 1964, in the United Kingdom. He is a British diplomat and former soldier. From July 2019 to March 2023, he served as the Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands. As Governor, he was the representative of the British Monarch in the islands.
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Early Life and Education
Nigel Dakin grew up in Birmingham, England. He attended King Edward VI Five Ways School. While still in school, he earned an Army Scholarship. This scholarship helped him attend the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1982. Sandhurst is a famous training center for British Army officers.
In 1983, he officially joined the British Army. He served as an Infantry Platoon Commander in Northern Ireland. Later, he studied Political Science at the University of Birmingham. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1987. In 1995, he also earned a Master's degree in Business Administration from Kingston University.
Nigel Dakin's Career
After finishing university, Nigel Dakin returned to the Army. He served in West Germany and Northern Ireland. In 1993, he was recognized for his bravery while serving in Northern Ireland. From 1994 to 1996, he worked in the Ministry of Defence. There, he advised important leaders on the peace process in Northern Ireland.
In 1996, Dakin joined the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). This is the part of the UK government that handles relationships with other countries. He first led teams working on issues related to Russia. Later, he focused on fighting terrorism. He became a Director and helped make big changes to how the FCO worked. He also advised the British Army's top leaders until 2019.
Working Around the World
Nigel Dakin worked in many different countries as a diplomat. He was a First Secretary in Nigeria (1998–1999) and India (1999–2001). He then served as a Political Counsellor in Pakistan (2007–2010) and Afghanistan (2012–2013).
He worked twice at the British Embassy in Washington DC, USA. From 2005 to 2007, he worked with the US government on issues like Iraq and Afghanistan. From 2016 to 2019, he was a senior official for national security. He advised the UK Ambassador to the United States.
Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands
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In May 2019, Nigel Dakin was chosen to be the Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands. He took office on July 15, 2019. As Governor, he represented Queen Elizabeth II and later King Charles III. He was like the head of state for the islands.
His job included appointing the head of the local government. He also led the Cabinet, which is like the government's main decision-making group. He was responsible for making sure the islands were well-governed. The Governor also oversaw defence, foreign affairs, financial services, and local security. This included the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.
During his time as Governor, Nigel Dakin faced several challenges. These included the COVID-19 pandemic, which gave him emergency powers. He also dealt with many people arriving from neighboring Haiti. There was also a rise in gang-related crime. He worked with the UK and The Bahamas to get help and support.
He also saw an election and a change in government during the pandemic. A Royal Visit took place, and Hurricane Fiona hit the islands.
Key Achievements as Governor
Nigel Dakin helped create the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment. This is a local military force for the islands. He also set up a National Security Secretariat. This group helps plan for the islands' safety. He worked to improve relationships with the USA and The Bahamas. This led to a security meeting for the North Caribbean region.
He also helped combine immigration and customs officers into a new Border Force. With support from the UK, the police force created a special team. This team focuses on tackling serious organized crime. New laws were passed to help the police gather important information.
As the Monarch's representative, Nigel Dakin officially announced King Charles III's new role in Grand Turk. He also attended the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. He finished his term as Governor on March 29, 2023.
Awards and Recognition
Nigel Dakin was awarded the Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG). He received this honor in 2020. It was given for his important work in British foreign policy.
Personal Life
Nigel Dakin married Amanda Johnson in 1987. They were married in her home country of Barbados. They have two children, Charlotte and Fraser.
