Hilda Effiong Bassey, better known as Hilda Baci, has been confirmed by Guinness World Records as the holder of a new culinary record: the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice. The remarkable accomplishment was officially announced on Monday, with the recorded weight reaching 8,780 kilogrammes (19,356 lb 9 oz).
The successful record-setting attempt was carried out in collaboration with food company Gino in Victoria Island, Lagos, turning Nigeria into a focal point of international culinary news.
International Recognition
The announcement was made on X (formerly known as Twitter), where Guinness World Records declared: “New record: Largest serving of Nigerian style jollof rice – 8,780 kg (19,356 lb 9 oz) achieved by Hilda Baci and Gino in Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria.”
This latest achievement follows Baci’s 2023 global breakthrough, when she broke the record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual, an effort that earned her widespread admiration and positioned her as a culinary ambassador for Nigeria.
Festival Atmosphere in Lagos
Crowds thronged the Eko Hotel and Suites as the attempt unfolded, creating a carnival-like environment complete with music, dance, and star appearances. Nollywood icon Funke Akindele personally commended Baci’s effort, joining her at the cooking arena to stir the jollof mixture.
The event also attracted the First Lady of Ogun State, Bamidele Abiodun, as well as popular personalities such as Kaffy, Tomike Adeoye, Veekee James, Spyro, and Alex Unusual, making the celebration both cultural and glamorous.
The Logistics of a Record
Baci explained that the enormous pot designed for the attempt held up to 22,619 litres, and her target was to fill it 80 per cent full. The task demanded about 5,278 kilogrammes of raw basmati rice—roughly 264 bags—though she worked with 250 bags to optimize the cooking strategy.
Legacy of Inspiration
Baci’s success continues to inspire countless Nigerians to embrace culinary innovation. Her record-breaking cook-a-thon in 2023, which lasted more than 93 hours, had already transformed her into a symbol of resilience and creativity.
Her latest achievement not only puts Nigerian food culture in the international spotlight but also reaffirms her role as one of Africa’s most influential culinary figures.
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