Voting for the 2025 Year-End Awards, organised by National Product Magazine (NPM) — a leading business and entrepreneurship publication — officially closed last night after running from October 20.

According to NPM Executive Director Arthur Chinyamula, this year’s edition features over 40 award categories celebrating excellence across industries such as manufacturing, technology, food processing, agriculture, real estate, tourism, transport, and banking.

Some of the major categories include Exporter the Year, Business Reporter of the Year, Manufacturer of the Year, and Service Excellence Award, among others.

In the banking sector, NBS Bank stands out as one of the key nominees, having been shortlisted in three categories.

The highly anticipated awards gala is scheduled for 14 December at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) under the theme “Where Innovation Meets Distinction: Celebrating Excellence and Service Across Industries.”

The event will begin with an industry exhibition and product showcase, allowing companies to display their innovations and services. Guests will also enjoy a red carpet session before the main ceremony.

Chinyamula encouraged attendees to come dressed to impress, as the gala will feature a special segment to recognise the four best-dressed guests of the night.

This year’s celebration also marks National Product Magazine’s 120th edition. Entertainment will include performances by Lulu and several traditional dance groups, promising “an epic night — a night to remember.”