Hilda Baci Aims to Break Guinness World Record for Largest Pot of Jollof Rice

Lagos, Nigeria – On September 12, 2025, Nigerian culinary star Hilda Baci embarked on an ambitious endeavor to claim a new Guinness World Record (GWR) by cooking the largest pot of jollof rice in history. The event, held at the prestigious Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos, has drawn thousands of supporters, turning the occasion into a vibrant celebration of Nigerian culture, cuisine, and community spirit. Guinness World Records extended its best wishes to Hilda ahead of the attempt, with an official message stating, “Best of luck, Hilda Baci, on your record attempt for the largest pot of jollof rice!” as she set out to make history once again.

Hilda Baci, a celebrated chef and former GWR titleholder, is no stranger to record-breaking feats. In 2023, she captured global attention by setting the record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual, clocking an impressive 93 hours and 11 minutes. Although that record was later surpassed, Hilda’s determination to push culinary boundaries remains unwavering. This time, her goal is to cook a staggering 250 bags of rice in a single, enormous pot, creating a dish that not only aims to secure a new world record but also showcases the rich flavors of Nigeria’s beloved jollof rice—a staple dish renowned across West Africa.

The event kicked off on Friday, September 12, 2025, with Hilda and her team meticulously preparing for the monumental task. In a heartfelt moment shared on social media, Hilda was seen praying with her mother for strength and success before the cooking began, a gesture that resonated deeply with her supporters. Emphasizing her commitment to quality, Hilda personally ensured the massive cooking pot was thoroughly cleaned, addressing hygiene concerns and setting the stage for a flawless attempt. The scale of the project is unprecedented, with the pot designed to handle the colossal volume of rice, spices, and ingredients needed to create a dish that could feed thousands.

The attempt has garnered widespread attention, with crowds gathering at Eko Hotels and Suites to cheer Hilda on. The event is more than just a record-breaking effort; it’s a cultural milestone aimed at celebrating Nigerian culinary heritage and uniting people through food. Jollof rice, a vibrant and flavorful dish made with rice, tomatoes, peppers, and spices, holds a special place in Nigerian cuisine and is often at the center of friendly regional debates about whose version reigns supreme. Hilda’s attempt amplifies this pride, putting Nigeria’s culinary prowess on the global stage.

Guinness World Records is closely monitoring the event to ensure all guidelines are met for official verification. The organization’s rules for such attempts are stringent, requiring precise documentation of ingredients, cooking processes, and the final output. Hilda’s team, backed by sponsors and volunteers, has worked tirelessly to meet these standards, with the cooking process expected to conclude in the coming hours or days, depending on the logistics of handling such a massive quantity of food.

Hilda’s journey has inspired countless fans, both in Nigeria and beyond. Her 2023 cooking marathon not only earned her a GWR title but also solidified her status as a culinary icon, known for her resilience and passion. This latest attempt further cements her legacy, blending ambition with a deep love for her craft. Social media platforms, including X, have been abuzz with messages of support, with hashtags like #HildaBaciJollof and #NigerianPride trending as fans share updates and rally behind her.

As the event progresses, all eyes are on Hilda and her team. If successful, this record will mark another milestone in her illustrious career and add a new chapter to Nigeria’s growing influence in global culinary arts. The final outcome is still pending, with GWR officials expected to review the attempt and announce results soon after completion. For now, Hilda Baci continues to stir the pot—both literally and figuratively—proving that with determination, community support, and a love for food, anything is possible.

Update: As of 10:40 AM WAT on Saturday, September 13, 2025, the attempt is ongoing, with Hilda and her team working diligently to complete the record-breaking jollof rice pot. Stay tuned for further updates on this historic culinary feat.