MONROVIA – Liberia’s civic and professional institutions increasingly confront questions of relevance, discipline, and impact. This is seemingly why the Eta Epsilon Lambda (EEL) Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has signaled a renewed commitment to structured leadership and national engagement. Meeting in Gbarnga City, Bong County, for its 2026 Annual Leadership and Planning Retreat, the Chapter used the occasion to assess its internal health, reaffirm its historic mission, and chart a clear course for the year ahead. Central to the retreat was the State of the Chapter Address delivered by Chapter President Ambassador B. Elias Shoniyin, which framed the gathering as a strategic reset—one intended to move Eta Epsilon Lambda decisively from reflection into disciplined execution. The Analyst reports.
The Eta Epsilon Lambda (EEL) Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has reaffirmed its commitment to disciplined leadership, strengthened governance, and national impact following the conclusion of its 2026 Annual Leadership and Planning Retreat held from January 23 to 25 in Gbarnga City, Bong County.
The retreat—only the second in the Chapter’s history to be held outside Montserrado County—was anchored by a comprehensive State of the Chapter Address delivered by Chapter President, Ambassador B. Elias Shoniyin, who described the gathering as both symbolic and strategic.
“This retreat is not merely a change of location; it is a statement of intent,” Ambassador Shoniyin told the assembly. “Eta Epsilon Lambda is expanding its vision, deepening its reach, and recommitting itself to leadership, service, and excellence across Liberia.”
Extending Alpha’s National Footprint
The decision to convene the retreat in Bong County was widely interpreted as a deliberate move to reinforce the Chapter’s national character and inclusivity. Ambassador Shoniyin commended the Bong County brothers for their leadership and hospitality, singling out Brothers Henrique Tokpa, Prince Moye, James Sao, and members of the Host Planning Committee for ensuring a productive and dignified gathering.
He emphasized that Alpha Phi Alpha’s ideals—brotherhood, scholarship, and service—are not confined to Monrovia but are meant to resonate across the country.
Assessing the State of the Chapter
In his address, the Chapter President reported that Eta Epsilon Lambda remains stable, respected, and resilient, having sustained its core programs and visibility in national civic life over the past year.
Key accomplishments highlighted included continued investment in education through the Alpha Scholarship and Awards Ball, sustained mentorship and leadership development initiatives targeting youth and emerging professionals, and consistent participation in national policy and governance discourse.
The Chapter has also strengthened collaboration with Alpha Phi Alpha’s international and regional structures to ensure alignment with global fraternity standards.
At the same time, Ambassador Shoniyin was candid about internal challenges, including organizational, financial, and operational constraints.
“The purpose of this retreat is not to dwell on shortcomings,” he said, “but to confront them boldly and convert them into opportunities for growth.”
Governance and Discipline as Cornerstones
A central theme of the State of the Chapter Address was governance reform and organizational discipline. Ambassador Shoniyin stressed that strong chapters are built on clear structures, accountability, and adherence to Alpha Phi Alpha’s Constitution and By-Laws.
Planned actions for 2026 include restructuring and recommitting Chapter committees, clarifying executive responsibilities, strengthening compliance with national insurance, tax, and statutory requirements, and expanding participation in the International Membership Development Program (IMDP) to deepen leadership competence.
“Governance is not about control,” he noted. “It is about trust, order, and excellence. When governance is strong, brotherhood flourishes.”
Five Strategic Priorities for 2026
Looking ahead, the Chapter President outlined five strategic priorities to guide Eta Epsilon Lambda’s work in 2026.
These include deepening brotherhood and active membership participation; elevating the Alpha Scholarship and Awards Ball through improved planning, fundraising, branding, and sponsorship; expanding mentorship and education programs with a focus on youth leadership, ethics, and civic responsibility; strengthening strategic partnerships and regional engagement, including continued consultations on possible affiliation with the West Africa National Pan-Hellenic Council; and maintaining Alpha Phi Alpha’s historic role as a respected voice in national discourse on education, governance, youth development, and public policy.
Action over Titles
In a pointed call to action, Ambassador Shoniyin cautioned against complacency and symbolic leadership.
“Titles do not build chapters—brothers do,” he said. “Plans do not change outcomes—action does. Vision without discipline is merely aspiration.”
He urged members to leave Gbarnga united in purpose, clear in priorities, and committed to execution.
Community Engagement and Reflection
Beyond internal deliberations, the retreat featured community service activities, including an eye-screening outreach and a career development and leadership symposium at Bong County Technical College, underscoring Alpha Phi Alpha’s enduring commitment to education and community upliftment.
The retreat concluded with a thanksgiving service at the Gbarnga First Baptist Church, where brothers gathered for worship, reflection, and fraternity fellowship.
Looking Forward
As Eta Epsilon Lambda enters 2026, Chapter leaders expressed confidence that the resolutions adopted in Gbarnga will translate into measurable outcomes.
Together, Ambassador Shoniyin said, the Chapter is positioned to strengthen its internal foundations, elevate Alpha Phi Alpha’s national impact, and leave a legacy consistent with the fraternity’s founding ideals of manly deeds, scholarship, and love for all mankind.