Hailed in oil-rich Nigeria as an action governor for successful economic and social programs that have transformed the lives of his people, Dr. Urji Uzor Kalu, Abia Executive Governor is expected to announce his candidacy for his country's 2007 presidential election, during a four-day to Chicago beginning this Saturday, July 30. As a supplier of 10% of U.S. oil needs and the most populous country in Africa, Nigeria's future is of importance to Americans.

During his visit, Gov. Kalu will discuss bilateral relations with Illinois Governor Blagojevich, Chicago Mayor Daley, Illinois Senate President Emil Jones, Jr., John Stroger, president, Cook County Board of Commissioners and Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White.

On Saturday, July 30, Gov. Kalu will make the biggest announcement of his political life at a rally at the Hyatt Regency, O'Hare Airport, 9300 West Bryn Mawr, 5 p.m.- 2 a.m.

Spurred by popular sentiments, Advancement Of Democracy in Nigeria(ADN) in the U.S. is hosting the rally to kick off the campaign for Governor Kalu's candidacy in the Nigeria's presidential election.

"Governor Kalu is the only capable politician who can turn Nigeria around by ushering the country to full democracy; spearheading the fight against corruption; involving the country actively in the war against terrorism; strengthening relations with Africa and the U.S.; and embarking on programs to enable ordinary Nigerians to benefit from the country's oil-rich resources," says Dr. Harold Molokwu MCT, coordinator of the governor's Chicago visit.

A successful business person who owns an airline and banks, Gov. Kalu headed a major bank and corporations in Nigeria before his election as governor six years ago. He pursued higher education at universities in Nigeria and the U.S.

"The Chicago rally is designed to provide Nigerians in the Diaspora the opportunity to get to know the governor and understand his views and visions for Nigeria. We decided to host this third event in Chicago because more Nigerians call Chicago home more than any other city outside of Nigeria. He can use Chicago as a gauge to feel the pulse of Nigerians in the Diaspora."

Another aide said Gov. Kalu will offer himself for service because he has the answer to Nigeria's numerous endemic socio-economic problems. "The accomplishments he has made in Abia during the past six years are quite instructive and underline his resolve to seek a higher office. He will map out strategies to fight corruption and reposition Nigeria economically and politically," he said.

Oil-rich Abia State is one of the 36 states which constitute the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

[Governor Orji Uzor Kalu - Recent Photo ]