Excited fans awaiting Hilda Baci’s Jollof rice
In a vibrant display of culinary ambition and cultural pride, Nigerian chef Hilda Baci captivated a massive crowd at Lagos’ Eko Hotels and Suites on Thursday, as she geared up to break the Guinness World Record for the largest pot of Jollof rice ever cooked.
The event, buzzing with anticipation, drew fans, food enthusiasts, media, and vendors, all eager to witness Baci’s latest milestone in her remarkable culinary journey.
The atmosphere was electric even before the event officially kicked off. By 8:30 a.m., a lively crowd had gathered outside the venue, with entry granted at 9:20 a.m., according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
However, by 1:30 p.m., the cooking was yet to begin, heightening the suspense.
Baci, who had announced that over 20,000 people registered to attend, aimed to cook an astonishing 250 bags of rice in a colossal 22,619-litre pot—a feat that could cement her name in culinary history.
The venue transformed into a vibrant celebration of Nigerian culture, resembling a bustling food festival.
Vendors lined up, offering an array of traditional Nigerian delicacies, from spicy suya to refreshing zobo drinks, representing the country’s diverse ethnic flavors. Content creators, influencers, and photographers roamed the grounds, capturing the infectious energy of the crowd.
At 12:56 p.m., the mood soared as music filled the air, prompting spontaneous dancing among attendees.
Security personnel and paramedics were strategically positioned to ensure safety and order, allowing the festive spirit to thrive uninterrupted.
The event wasn’t just about food—it was a showcase of Nigeria’s unity and culinary heritage, with Jollof rice, a dish synonymous with West African pride, at its heart. Often a subject of friendly rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana, Jollof rice symbolizes cultural identity, making Baci’s attempt a moment of national significance.
**Hilda Baci’s Rise to Culinary Stardom**
Hilda Baci first captured global attention in 2023 with her record-breaking “Cook-a-thon,” where she cooked for 93 hours and 11 minutes, earning a Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual.
This achievement thrust her into the international spotlight, establishing her as a culinary trailblazer and a symbol of Nigerian excellence.
A graduate of Madonna University, Baci honed her skills through years of dedication, starting as a food enthusiast and building her brand, _My Food by Hilda_, into a household name. Her infectious passion and innovative approach to Nigerian cuisine have made her a role model for aspiring chefs across Africa.
Reflecting on her journey, Baci once said in a 2023 interview, “Cooking is my way of telling Nigeria’s story to the world. Every dish carries our history, our joy, and our resilience.”
Her determination and charisma have garnered her a massive following, with fans admiring her ability to blend tradition with ambition.
Voices from the Crowd
The event drew notable figures, including Nigerian actor Charles Bond, a close friend of Baci’s.
“Hilda is unstoppable,” Bond enthused.
“When she sets her mind to something, she makes it happen. The energy here is incredible—everyone’s united, eating, and celebrating our food.”
His words echoed the crowd’s excitement, as attendees marveled at the scale of the event and its cultural significance.
Creative Director of BAT Events and Chops and one of the vendors, Blessing Okechukwu, shared her pride in being part of the historic moment.
“This is more than Jollof rice—it’s Nigeria showing the world our vibrancy, our unity, and our flavor,” she said. For Okechukwu, serving food at the event was a chance to contribute to a global celebration of Nigerian identity.
A Legacy in the Making
Baci’s attempt to cook the world’s largest pot of Jollof rice is more than a record-breaking endeavor—it’s a testament to her vision of elevating Nigerian cuisine on the global stage. As she stirred the pot (quite literally), she carried the hopes of a nation eager to see its culinary heritage celebrated. With her infectious energy and unwavering commitment, Hilda Baci is not just cooking rice—she’s cooking up a legacy.
