Speech for the Commissioning of the Solar Power System at CRARN Children Centre, Ikot Afaha, Eket, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, By the President/CEO of CRARN, Sam Ikpe Itauma
Distinguished guests, esteemed dignitaries, respected donors, community leaders, and most importantly, the bright and resilient children of CRARN—good morning/afternoon
Today, we gather not merely to inaugurate a solar power system but to illuminate a future—a future where hope shines brighter, where possibilities are limitless, and where the children of CRARN can live and learn in dignity.
Significance of Solar Energy
For years, these children—innocent victims of stigma and abandonment—have faced unimaginable hardships. And yet, they have persevered. Through the dedication of CRARN and the unwavering commitment of compassionate individuals, we have defied the odds and created a sanctuary of safety and love.
But a home is more than just walls; it is light, warmth, and security. With the commissioning of this solar power system, we take a monumental step towards sustainability. No longer will these children sit in darkness when the sun sets. No longer will their education be disrupted by power outages. No longer will their daily lives be dictated by the instability of conventional energy sources.
This is not just an energy project; it is empowerment. It is freedom. It is a promise that these children deserve the same opportunities as every other child in this state, in this country, and beyond.
Appreciation to Akwa Ibom Women Association, Houston Chapter, USA
None of this would be possible without the generosity of our friends and partners. We extend our deepest gratitude to Akwa Ibom Women Association, Houston Chapter, USA, under the able leadership of Mrs. Mercy Odungide for their unwavering commitment to humanity. Your compassion has translated into action, and because of you, the children of CRARN will wake up each day with the power to dream, to learn, and to thrive
We honor your contribution today, not just with words, but with the knowledge that your support has changed lives forever. We also appreciate the wife of the Eket Local Government Chairman, Mrs. Mary-Anne Akaninyene Tommy
On this same strength, we extend heartfelt gratitude to our generous scholarship donors for their unwavering support in shaping the futures of these children. Your kindness has opened doors to education, giving them the opportunity to learn, grow, and dream beyond their circumstances. Your investment is more than financial aid—it is the foundation for a brighter tomorrow. As we celebrate this achievement, let us also recognize the urgent need for more scholarships, especially for our tertiary students. Your continued generosity can transform even more lives.
But as a pungent reminder, many of our children in tertiary institutions still lack scholarships, and without support, their education is at risk. The tuition drive is fast approaching, and we must act now. Let’s ensure these young scholars continue their journey uninterrupted. Your generosity can secure their future—please step forward gallantly and make a difference today.
CRARN’s Achievements
The CRARN Children Centre stands as a testament to resilience and the power of collective action. It is the first Centre in the world that accepts pariah and stigmatized children. Over 20 years, we have rescued, rehabilitated, and empowered thousands of children—providing shelter, education, medical care, and emotional healing to those society had cast aside.
We have fought tirelessly against stigma and ignorance. We have given voice to the voiceless. And yet, our work is far from done.
A Call to Action: Support for Our Children
Let me speak plainly. These children are not statistics. They are not faceless names on a forgotten report. They are children, children who deserve love, care, and protection. And the question we must ask ourselves today is simple: Will we continue to turn a blind eye, or will we embrace them as our own?
It is deeply troubling that despite Akwa Ibom State being a land of abundance—a state filled with ‘milk and honey’—we still rely heavily on foreign donors to feed, educate, and provide healthcare for our children.
We cannot—we must not—continue to let outsiders bear the burden of our responsibility. The truth is painful: CRARN has only four recurrent or monthly donors in Nigeria, and none are from the Niger Delta—let alone Akwa Ibom State.
How is it that a state blessed with resources has allowed an organization like CRARN to shoulder this immense task alone? How is it that our very own children—the future of our communities—are sustained largely by external kindness rather than local commitment?
Today, I urge you all: Turn a new leaf. Take ownership of these children. Support them as you would your own sons and daughters. Let us prove that charity does not always have to come from across the ocean—that right here, within our homes, within our state, within our hearts, we have the capacity to uplift our own.
Closing Appeal
As we commission this solar power system today, let it symbolize not just light, but transformation. Let it serve as a beacon—a reminder that change starts with each of us.
To the esteemed guests gathered here, to government officials, to community leaders, to every individual present, I implore you: Do not walk away today unchanged. Let this moment inspire action. Let this reality drive responsibility. And let the light of this solar power system ignite in us a renewed sense of duty.
Our children deserve better. CRARN has done its part. Now, it is time for the people of Akwa Ibom and at large Nigeria to stand up and do their share.
Thank you all and may the light we bring today never dim in our hearts.
Sam Ikpe Itauma
President/CEO
www.CRARN.net
