In a momentous recognition of his exceptional contributions to the fight against Trafficking in Persons (TIP) and Smuggling of Migrants (SOM) in Nigeria, Mr. Federico Milan, the Team Leader of the A-TIPSOM Project, has been bestowed with the esteemed chieftaincy title of the “Gatekeeper of Gagi Community.” The ceremony took place on November 8, 2023, in Sokoto State and was overseen by Alhaji Sani Umar Jabbi, the Sarkin Gagi of Gagi community, and witnessed by representatives of NACTAL Nigeria led by National President Abdulganiyu Abubakar, alongside well-wishers.
Federico Milan, a Spanish National Police Officer, assumed his role as the Team Leader of the A-TIPSOM Project in November 2022, an initiative by FIIAPP funded by the European Union. Since his arrival in Nigeria, he has played a pivotal role in countering TIP, providing substantial support to both government and non-governmental organizations. Under his leadership, the project has witnessed innovative and creative approaches to anti-trafficking efforts, and recently, he introduced the groundbreaking concept of the Anti-Human Trafficking Neighbourhood Watch, which was inaugurated in Sokoto.
The chieftaincy title, “Gatekeeper of Gagi Community,” is a testament to Milan’s proactive and impactful leadership, ensuring the A-TIPSOM Project implements sustainable activities that will stay beyond the project’s duration. In response to the honor, Milan expressed great delight and happiness, acknowledging the dedication, commitment, and relentless efforts of the community leader, Sarki Gagi, and the entire leadership of NACTAL in the fight against TIP in the community and the nation at large.