Renowned chef Hilda Baci on Saturday marked a new milestone in her career by attempting to cook the world’s largest pot of jollof rice in pursuit of a Guinness World Record (GWR).
Baci successfully prepared about 200 bags of rice in a massive 22,619-litre pot, measuring six metres wide and six metres tall, over the course of nine hours.
Originally, she had planned to use 250 bags of Basmati rice but adjusted the quantity to 200 bags due to weight limitations.
The event, hosted at the car park B of Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos under the theme ‘Gino World Jollof Festival’, attracted fans, food vendors, and entertainers who came out in large numbers to support her.
After the preparation, the jollof rice was shared with more than 30,000 people in takeaway packs.
Attendees were also encouraged to bring containers to carry extra portions, as the food was more than sufficient.
On Friday, the Federal Government had praised Baci for her drive to break the record, describing it as another testament to Nigeria’s creative talent.
The commendation was delivered on behalf of the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, by Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo, Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria.
Idris noted that her bold attempt would inspire other young Nigerians to pursue innovative ventures with global impact.
He encouraged youths to harness their creativity in ways that would not only bring them personal recognition but also contribute to national pride.
Several celebrities and social media influencers, including Funke Akindele, Bamike Olawunmi-Adenibuyan, Enioluwa Adeoluwa, and Tomike Adeoye, joined thousands of supporters at the venue.
Students from the Bethesda Home and School for the Blind were also present to cheer on the chef.
Baci’s accomplishment stands as a cultural highlight, reinforcing Nigeria’s culinary heritage and placing local cuisine on the world map.