Nigeria’s celebrated chef and culinary star, Hilda Effiong Bassey, popularly known as Hilda Baci, has added another remarkable achievement to her growing list of accolades after officially receiving her second Guinness World Record (GWR) plaque — this time, for preparing the world’s largest pot of jollof rice.
The recognition was confirmed by the Guinness World Records team following a detailed verification of her record-breaking event, which took place in Lagos, Nigeria, in September 2025. The feat involved preparing a massive 8,780 kilograms (19,356 pounds) of jollof rice, marking a monumental culinary accomplishment not just for Hilda, but for the entire African continent.
This comes two years after her historic 2023 cooking marathon, where she earned her first Guinness World Record for the Longest Cooking Marathon (Individual), clocking an extraordinary 93 hours and 11 minutes of nonstop cooking — a record that captured global attention and made her a household name in Nigeria and beyond.
Celebrating Africa’s Culinary Pride
The jollof rice cookout was more than just an attempt to set a world record — it was a cultural celebration that brought together thousands of Nigerians and food lovers from across Africa. The event, hosted at the Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos, attracted an estimated 20,000 spectators, including fellow chefs, influencers, entertainment stars, and government representatives who came to witness the spectacle of unity through food.
Every stage of the cookout was meticulously planned to meet the Guinness World Records’ strict standards. The ingredients, measurement, and serving process were monitored by professional auditors and Guinness officials to ensure compliance. Upon completion, the entire pot of rice was distributed among attendees, food vendors, and charitable organisations across Lagos — ensuring zero waste and maximum community impact.
According to the Guinness World Records verification report, Hilda Baci’s pot of jollof rice measured the largest ever recorded globally, surpassing all previous attempts by other countries including Ghana and The Gambia.
Hilda Baci’s Journey: From Passion to Global Recognition
Born in Akwa Ibom State, Hilda Baci’s culinary journey began with a simple passion for cooking and storytelling through food. Over the years, she evolved into one of Nigeria’s most influential chefs, television hosts, and food entrepreneurs. Her brand, My Food by Hilda, has become a household name, inspiring a new generation of Nigerian chefs and content creators.
Hilda’s second Guinness plaque represents a continuation of that journey — one marked by hard work, innovation, and national pride. In an emotional post shared on her verified Instagram page, she wrote:
“Two records. Two plaques. One story of faith, fire, and history. Twice, God showed up for me. Twice, we made history for Nigeria.”
Her words resonated deeply across social media, drawing congratulations from celebrities, political figures, and fans alike. Many hailed her as a symbol of perseverance and proof that Nigeria’s creative and culinary industries can achieve global recognition.
A Boost for Nigerian Cuisine and Cultural Diplomacy
Cultural analysts have described Hilda’s second world record as a defining moment for Nigeria’s culinary diplomacy — positioning local dishes like jollof rice on the global stage as symbols of creativity, hospitality, and African identity.
Dr. Tunde Akande, a Lagos-based food historian, noted that her success highlights the importance of investing in Nigeria’s food and tourism industries.
“What Hilda Baci has achieved goes beyond personal glory. She has transformed a local dish into a tool of cultural pride and international branding,” he said.
In recent years, Nigerian cuisine has gained increasing attention in global culinary circles, with chefs like Hilda Baci, Gbubemi Fregene (Chef Fregz), and Michael Elegbede leading the charge. Her Guinness recognition could potentially open doors for international culinary festivals, tourism partnerships, and brand endorsements focused on promoting authentic African food.
National Reactions and Celebration of Resilience
Shortly after the announcement, congratulatory messages poured in from various sectors. The Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation described her feat as “a reflection of Nigerian resilience and excellence,” while the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) commended her for promoting Nigeria’s image positively on the world stage.
Celebrities such as Tiwa Savage, Funke Akindele, and Rema also celebrated her success online, with hashtags like #HildaBaciTheRecordBreaker trending across X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
The Lagos State Government also reportedly honoured her with a commendation plaque, recognizing her contribution to Nigeria’s soft power and global culinary representation.
Economic and Social Impact
The large-scale jollof rice event also had a notable economic impact, as it involved over 300 volunteers, food vendors, logistics companies, and event organisers. Local businesses supplying rice, tomatoes, seasoning, and energy were significantly boosted by the high-profile cookout.
Beyond business, Hilda’s record-breaking effort became a rallying point for national pride and unity, drawing Nigerians from all backgrounds to celebrate a shared culinary heritage.
Social media platforms were flooded with images of the giant pot, with many Nigerians expressing excitement at seeing their beloved jollof rice achieve global acknowledgment.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Hilda Baci’s Culinary Legacy
As Hilda Baci now holds two official Guinness World Record plaques, attention turns to what lies ahead for the trailblazing chef. Insiders say she is already working on several culinary and media projects, including a potential international cooking show aimed at showcasing African cuisines to a global audience.
Industry observers believe her latest milestone could spark a wave of investment in Nigeria’s food technology, hospitality, and creative sectors, encouraging more young people — especially women — to pursue careers in culinary arts and entrepreneurship.
For many Nigerians, Hilda’s journey stands as a powerful reminder that determination, creativity, and national pride can turn even a humble dish into a symbol of international excellence.
