Anchored in Faith: Daniel Itaya’s Journey from Tragedy to Testimony

Meet Daniel Itaya, a young single adult from the Awi Ward in the Akamkpa Stake in Calabar, Nigeria, whose search for peace after tragedy led him to the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.

In 2018, Daniel was riding with a friend on a tricycle bike when they collided with a truck. The crash cost him his left leg but spared his life. He was devastated, struggling to find meaning and direction.

As he sought comfort, Daniel visited different denominations but never felt settled. One day, after praying in his closet for God to show him the right path, he met a missionary near his home. The elder handed him a pamphlet titled Plan of Salvation and shared a message of hope. For the first time, Daniel felt a sense of peace. By the end of 2019, he was learning the gospel in earnest, and in 2020, he entered the waters of baptism with a firm testimony of Jesus Christ.

Daniel’s life had already been marked by hardship. The lastborn of five children, he lost his mother at age eight and never knew his father. Raised by his village community, he was later guided by an uncle who secured him an apprenticeship in shoemaking following his accident. The trainer was a good man who built Daniel’s confidence, instilling discipline and pride in his craft. Daniel embraced the trade, developing skills and a passion for creating quality shoes.

Although he was unable to serve a full-time mission, Daniel found his place serving alongside the local missionaries. He often bears his testimony, saying: “I have faith in Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. They are my anchors, and I feel the Spirit when I testify of Them. I know the Church is true, and serving with the missionaries strengthens my faith.”

Today, Daniel continues to serve in his ward and YSA community while teaching shoemaking at his stake Gathering Place. Just as his mentor inspired him, he lifts his students with confidence and skill. His favorite project is crafting gladiator sandals, which he praises for their precision and beauty. On a busy day, he can complete up to 10 pairs, though he prefers custom work. This year, he has already finished 40 personalized orders.

Proud of his craft, Daniel hopes to develop a YouTube presence and says, “I am proud of being a shoemaker! I have studied it, and I’m very good at making cover shoes, sneakers, and sandals.” His dream is to grow his reputation as a master shoemaker, expand his business, and one day purchase a prosthetic limb to increase his mobility.

Above all, Daniel trusts the Lord’s plan. “I know the Lord has a plan for me. I feel His love, and I’m grateful to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It has been the best decision of my life.”