Akwa lbom State Commissioner for Economic Development and Ibom Deep Seaport, Mr Akan Okon, on Sunday, charged women to see themselves as agents of peace and development in the society.

At the St. Peter's Apostolic Church National Women Fellowship Retreat, Season 5 with the theme "The Christian Race", the Commissioner urged the women to continue playing their motherhood roles by bringing up their children in the fear of God.

The Commissioner who was the Guest of Honour at the event, said the women should remain prayerful and hard-working and also foster societal growth and development by advising their children against cultism, drug abuse, prostitution and other societal ills.

He lauded the women for their support for Governor Udom Emmanuel during this year's election, adding the current administration will leave positive impacts in the state, through its developmental strides.

Mr Akan Okon further assured that the Governor's Wife, Mrs Martha Emmanuel will continually carry the women along in the scheme of things, while also ensuring they are empowered so they can cater for their families.

The event also had in attendance the Commissioner for Agriculture and Women Affairs, Dr. Glory Edet, amongst others.