GWR: Hilda Baci completes jollof rice cooking attempt, awaits verdict

Celebrity chef Hilda Baci has achieved another historic milestone after successfully cooking the world’s largest pot of jollof rice, setting a new Guinness World Record (GWR).

The 28-year-old culinary star prepared about 200 bags of rice in a massive 22,619-litre pot, measuring six metres in width and height. Initially planning to cook 250 bags of Basmati rice, she adjusted the quantity due to weighing challenges but still completed the feat in just nine hours.

The event, tagged Gino World Jollof Festival, was held at the car park of Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, where thousands of fans, food vendors, and entertainers gathered to cheer her on. After the successful attempt, the jollof rice was shared among more than 30,000 people, with takeaway packs provided and attendees encouraged to bring their own coolers due to the surplus.

The Federal Government, represented by Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris through Dr Olalekan Fadolapo, Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, praised Baci for her creativity and contribution to national pride. “We encourage more young Nigerians to channel their creativity and talents into ventures that will not only benefit them personally but also contribute to national development and global recognition,” Idris said.

Nigerian celebrities and influencers, including Funke Akindele, Bamike Olawunmi-Adenibuyan, Enioluwa Adeoluwa, and Tomike Adeoye, joined the crowd to show support. Students from Bethesda Home and School for the Blind were also in attendance.

The achievement adds to Hilda Baci’s growing reputation as a global culinary ambassador, putting Nigerian cuisine in the spotlight once again.