President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, on Wednesday in Abuja, received the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, and his Cross River State counterpart, Bassey Otu, in what observers described as a strategic meeting aimed at strengthening inter-governmental collaboration and regional development.

Though, this reporter was not sure if their meeting was at the instance of the 76 Oil Wells palaver between the two states, but the high-level dialogue, held in the nation’s capital, brought together the two South-South governors and the Senate President in a closed-door discussion believed to have focused on issues of common interest to their states and the broader Niger Delta region.

Though details of the deliberations were not immediately made public, sources hinted that the talks centred on fostering stronger ties between Akwa Ibom and Cross River States, enhancing federal-state cooperation, and exploring legislative support for critical infrastructure and economic development initiatives.

Akpabio, a former governor of Akwa Ibom State, has consistently advocated for synergy among political leaders from the South-South geopolitical zone to advance regional integration, peace, and sustainable growth.

The visit by Governors Eno and Otu is seen as reinforcing that shared commitment.

Political analysts note that the convergence of the three leaders underscores a renewed drive toward collaboration across party lines and state boundaries, particularly in areas such as maritime economy, tourism development, security, and federal projects.

The meeting also signals ongoing consultations between the executive and legislative arms of government at both state and federal levels, aimed at aligning development priorities and accelerating progress in the region.