Hilda Baci Makes History as Guinness World Records Confirms Her New Feat with the Largest Pot of Jollof Rice

In what can only be described as another proud moment for Nigeria on the global stage, culinary sensation Hilda Baci has etched her name into history yet again as Guinness World Records confirmed her latest achievement: the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice. The feat, which took place in Victoria Island, Lagos, saw the celebrated chef, in partnership with food brand Gino, prepare an astonishing 8,780 kilograms (19,356 pounds 9 ounces) of jollof rice in a massive cooking display that blended culinary expertise, cultural pride, and national celebration. For a country where jollof rice is more than just food but an identity and unifying delicacy, this achievement has resonated deeply with Nigerians and Africans at large.

The record-breaking cooking event was no ordinary kitchen activity; it was a spectacle that attracted food lovers, curious onlookers, influencers, celebrities, and even tourists who trooped to the venue to witness history being made. The atmosphere in Victoria Island was electric as Hilda, already renowned for her 2023 Guinness World Record cook-a-thon, once again showed resilience, creativity, and her signature flair in handling a project of such magnitude. Large industrial pots, state-of-the-art cooking equipment, and tons of fresh ingredients sourced locally all came together under her coordination to produce what is now officially the largest pot of jollof rice ever recorded in the world.

Guinness World Records, through its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, confirmed the achievement with the words: “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.” The post immediately went viral, drawing tens of thousands of reactions, shares, and comments from across the globe. Nigerians on social media platforms erupted in celebration, proud to see one of their own once again put the country in the spotlight for something positive and unifying. For many, it was not just about food, but about the symbolism of ambition, perseverance, and African cultural pride.

Hilda Baci, who became a household name following her daring cook-a-thon that broke the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon in 2023, has steadily built her brand as a chef, entrepreneur, and cultural ambassador. Her name is now synonymous with passion and excellence in the Nigerian culinary industry, and this latest record further cements her legacy. At the venue, witnesses reported an air of excitement as volunteers, staff, and guests tasted the jollof rice, praising both the flavor and the significance of the achievement. The scale of preparation required meticulous planning, with Hilda and her team working round the clock to ensure the food was perfectly cooked despite the extraordinary quantity involved.

The choice of jollof rice for this monumental record attempt was no coincidence. Jollof, a West African delicacy, is perhaps Nigeria’s most famous dish and has been at the center of friendly culinary rivalries with other countries like Ghana and Senegal. But Nigeria’s unique style of jollof – characterized by its rich tomato base, aromatic spices, and smoky flavor – has long been argued to be the best variation. By setting this Guinness World Record, Hilda has not only brought recognition to Nigerian culinary prowess but also added weight to the ongoing “Jollof Wars,” with Nigerians proudly proclaiming that their version has now been immortalized in history books.

The record attempt also had a charitable dimension, as thousands of portions of the jollof rice were distributed to the public, including underprivileged communities, shelters, and institutions across Lagos. This ensured that the event was not only about glory but also about giving back, sharing joy, and spreading the warmth of Nigerian hospitality through food. Witnesses described the scene of families, children, and even strangers coming together to share in the meal as a beautiful reminder of the communal essence of African dining.

The economic and cultural impact of this feat cannot be underestimated. For the Nigerian culinary industry, it opens new opportunities for chefs and food brands to explore global recognition. For brands like Gino, the official partner, the event doubled as both a marketing success and a contribution to cultural heritage. For Hilda herself, the recognition further solidifies her brand as not just a chef but a global cultural figure, capable of using food as a tool for inspiration, unity, and empowerment.

International media outlets have already begun reporting the news, with coverage extending beyond Africa to Europe, America, and Asia, where Nigerian cuisine is steadily gaining popularity. Many have praised Hilda’s courage and ambition, noting that her story is a shining example of how passion, resilience, and cultural pride can open doors to global recognition. In a world often dominated by negative headlines from Nigeria, this achievement provides a refreshing narrative of positivity, excellence, and celebration.

On social media, hashtags like #HildaBaci, #JollofRecord, and #GWR trended for hours, with Nigerians at home and abroad expressing their pride. Messages poured in from celebrities, politicians, and cultural figures congratulating Hilda and thanking her for making Nigeria proud once again. Even those from rival jollof nations jokingly conceded defeat, acknowledging the sheer magnitude of the record. Memes, videos, and photos from the event flooded the internet, capturing moments of laughter, excitement, and joy as thousands gathered around the gigantic pots to witness history.

For Hilda Baci, this is not just about setting records but about inspiring a new generation of dreamers. Her journey has become a symbol of how Nigerian youth, with determination and creativity, can shine on the global stage. In interviews following her previous record-breaking feat, she often emphasized resilience and faith, qualities that were clearly at play in this new achievement. By choosing a dish so symbolic to Nigeria and West Africa at large, she has shown that culture, when celebrated and amplified, can become a powerful tool for unity and international recognition.

The new Guinness World Record for the largest pot of jollof rice will undoubtedly go down in history as one of Nigeria’s proudest culinary moments. Beyond the numbers and the weight of the rice, it represents a story of ambition, unity, cultural pride, and the spirit of sharing that defines Nigerian society. In the end, it was not just about cooking 8,780 kilograms of jollof rice, but about reminding the world that Nigerian culture, food, and talent are forces to be reckoned with on any stage. And with Hilda Baci leading the charge, the world is paying attention.