Hilda Baci cooks World Largest Pot of Jollof Rice
In a vibrant celebration of Nigerian culture and culinary prowess, chef Hilda Baci has etched her name in the Guinness World Records once again, this time for cooking the largest pot of jollof rice ever recorded.
The feat, accomplished on September 13, 2025, in Victoria Island, Lagos, saw Baci transform 4,000 kilograms of Basmati rice into a steaming, aromatic masterpiece that fed thousands and captured the spirit of a nation.
Baci, a 28-year-old culinary star, first rose to global fame in May 2023 with her grueling 100-hour cook-a-thon that showcased her endurance and passion for Nigerian cuisine.
This time, partnering with Gino Nigeria, she set her sights on a colossal challenge: cooking 8,780 kilograms (19,356 pounds) of jollof rice in a massive 22,619-liter pot, measuring six meters wide and six meters tall.
The cooking process, which took nine hours, was a meticulous operation, with Guinness World Records officials overseeing strict measurements to ensure compliance with their rigorous standards.
“We aimed for 5,000 kilograms initially, but weighing challenges led us to adjust to 4,000 kilograms,” Baci explained in an interview. “It was intense, but seeing the joy on people’s faces as they enjoyed the jollof made every moment worth it.”
The event wasn’t just about breaking records; it was a love letter to Nigerian culture. Held in the heart of Lagos, the festival buzzed with energy as food vendors dished out local delicacies, musicians filled the air with Afrobeat rhythms, and thousands of fans gathered to witness history.
Nollywood icons like Funke Akindele and influencers such as Enioluwa Adeoluwa and Bamike Olawunmi-Adenibuyan joined the crowd, adding star power to the celebration.
“Hilda’s passion is infectious,” said Akindele, smiling as she sampled the record-breaking dish.
“This is more than food—it’s Nigeria’s heart on a plate.”
The jollof, prepared with Gino’s signature spices, was a vibrant medley of flavors, embodying the smoky, spicy essence that makes Nigerian jollof a West African treasure.
Organizers ensured no food went to waste, distributing portions to attendees and local communities, turning the record attempt into a communal feast.
Reflecting on the achievement, Baci’s voice brimmed with pride and gratitude.
“This wasn’t just my win—it belongs to every Nigerian who cheered, supported, and believed in this dream,” she said.
“Cooking this jollof felt like bringing our culture to the world stage.”
Guinness World Records confirmed the feat on Monday, September 15, 2025, via a post on X:
“New record: Largest serving of Nigerian-style Jollof rice – 8,780 kg, achieved by Hilda Baci and Gino in Lagos, Nigeria.”
The announcement sparked a wave of pride across social media, with fans hailing Baci as a national hero.
Born in Akwa Ibom, Baci has become a symbol of ambition and resilience, proving that Nigerian cuisine can command global attention.
Her latest triumph not only celebrates jollof rice—a dish at the heart of West African culinary debates—but also showcases the unity and vibrancy of Nigeria’s cultural tapestry.
As the aroma of jollof lingered in Lagos, Baci’s record served as a reminder: in Nigeria, food is love, and love knows no limits.
