Nigerian celebrity chef Hilda Effiong Bassey, popularly known as Hilda Baci, has once again placed Nigeria on the global culinary map after Guinness World Records confirmed her latest feat, cooking the largest serving of Jollof rice in history.
The record-breaking event, held on September 12, 2025 at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, saw Hilda and her team prepare a staggering 8,780 kilograms of Nigerian-style Jollof rice. The dish was cooked in a custom-built pot measuring nearly six metres in diameter and weighing several tonnes.
According to Guinness World Records, the attempt required Hilda to use at least 80% rice in the final dish. She met the mark with 4,000 kg of washed basmati rice, combined with 164 kg of fresh goat meat, 220 kg of seasoned chicken cubes, and over 600 kg of her signature pepper mix.
The process took more than nine hours of continuous cooking, during which thousands of spectators, food lovers, and volunteers gathered to witness the spectacle. There was a dramatic moment when the giant pot temporarily collapsed under its massive weight, but organizers quickly stabilized it, saving the record-breaking meal.
In line with Guinness guidelines, none of the food was allowed to go to waste. The Jollof rice was divided into over 16,600 plates and distributed free of charge to attendees, passersby, and charity homes across Lagos.
Speaking after the confirmation of her record, an emotional Hilda Baci described the feat as a triumph of teamwork, resilience, and cultural pride.
“This wasn’t just about me. It was about showcasing the spirit of Nigeria, our love for food, and the unity Jollof rice brings to West Africa. I dedicate this record to every Nigerian, because this victory belongs to us all,” she said.
The Lagos State Government and several local brands supported the attempt, while social media platforms buzzed with excitement, with many hailing it as a win in the long-standing “Jollof wars” between Nigeria, Ghana, and other West African nations.
This is Hilda Baci’s second Guinness World Record, coming just over a year after she set the record for the longest cooking marathon (individual) in 2023.
Her latest triumph has further cemented her status as a cultural icon, inspiring a new generation of young Africans to chase bold dreams and put the continent on the global stage.
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