Makers of Lord’s London Dry Gin, Nigeria Distilleries Limited, have announced their plans to recognise youths in different fields of business and social impact.

The firm said the Lord’s Achievers Awards will return this year for its seventh edition with an expanded jury process and new categories.

Marketing Manager of Nigeria Distilleries Limited, Oluwagbemileke Lawal, said the awards remain a reflection of the company’s belief in the power of youth to shape the country’s future.

He said, “Our investment in the Lord’s Achievers Awards is a reflection of our long-standing belief in the power of youth to shape the future. By recognising young leaders and innovators across diverse sectors, we are celebrating achievement while creating a platform that inspires, encourages, and empowers others to take bold steps toward positive change.”

Now in its seventh year, the Lord’s Achievers Awards has honoured more than 60 young leaders across business, technology, arts, and social impact.

 Organisers said the 2025 edition would mark a turning point by introducing a formal jury session to strengthen transparency in the selection process.

This year’s jury includes CNN Senior Editor for Africa Stephanie Busari; Director of Creativity and Innovations at Globacom Chuka Obi; Director of Operations, Africa, EMPIRE, Titilope Adesanya; Chief Executive Officer, Southwest Innovation and Tech Co. Ltd, Wole Odetayo; Managing Partner, F.I.T Africa, Femi Taiwo; Chief Content Officer, FilmOne Limited, Ladun Awobokun; and Partner, Accelerate Africa & Future Africa, Chinyere Inya.

Representing the brand on the jury are Lawal, Senior Brand Manager, Lord’s London Dry Gin; Olusegun Akinyemiju, Partner at The Influence Agency; and Oluwaseun Olaniyan.

Organisers disclosed that the 2025 edition would also introduce four new categories: Media & Journalism, Sports, Content Creation, and Film & Entertainment, to ensure broader recognition across emerging sectors.

Jury members deliberated on nominees using criteria such as innovation, impact, leadership, sustainability, and alignment with the brand’s values.

Senior Brand Manager of Lord’s London Dry Gin, Akinyemiju, said the awards have evolved into a legacy platform.

He said, “Lord’s Gin has always stood for distinction, character, and excellence. The evolution of the Awards and the credibility of this year’s jury process reinforce our commitment to building a legacy platform that honours achievers whose impact will be remembered for years to come.”

Organisers said the 2025 Awards would spotlight a new generation of achievers whose stories will drive ambition and inspire change across Nigeria.