Hilda Baci has done it again. The Nigerian celebrity chef, who captured global attention with her record-breaking cook-a-thon in 2023, has now etched her name in culinary history by setting a new Guinness World Record for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice.
The feat, achieved in partnership with Gino on Friday in Victoria Island, Lagos, saw Baci and her team prepare a staggering 8,780 kilograms of jollof rice, officially confirmed by Guinness World Records on Monday. The dish, weighing 19,356 lb 9 oz, was prepared with precision, passion, and pride in Nigerian cuisine.
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Guinness World Records first teased the attempt with a message of encouragement, sharing a video that read, “What’s cookin’? Best of luck to @hildabacicooks, who’s attempting a new record for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice today.” Days later, the confirmation arrived, cementing Baci’s status as a global culinary star.
Behind the record was a careful strategy. Baci revealed that she initially planned to use 5,278 kilograms of raw basmati rice, equivalent to 264 bags. However, due to technical considerations involving the custom-made pot and weighing equipment, she scaled back to 200 bags. This still produced over 4,000 kilogrammes of cooked rice, enough to feed 20,000 people.
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The atmosphere in Victoria Island quickly transformed into a celebration. Music, dance, and star appearances electrified the venue. Nollywood actress Funke Akindele joined Hilda on stage to cheer her on and even stirred the tomato base herself. The First Lady of Ogun State, Bamidele Abiodun, also graced the occasion in support of Baci’s bold culinary adventure.
The guest list reflected the star power of the event, with celebrities including Kaffy, Tomike Adeoye, Enioluwa, Peller, Veekee James, Femi Atere, Tacha, Papaya, Samuel Banks, Alex Unusual, Folagbade Banks, and Spyro in attendance. Their presence added glamour to what was already a historic day for Nigerian food culture.
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Hilda Baci’s achievement is more than just a record. It is a cultural statement about the pride Nigerians take in their cuisine, particularly the beloved jollof rice. By bringing together community, music, and tradition, Baci’s record-setting dish has once again showcased Nigerian food on the global stage.
