Nigerian celebrity chef Hilda Baci has once again etched her name in the history books, securing a new Guinness World Record for preparing the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice. The global recognition was confirmed on Monday, September 15, when Guinness World Records (GWR) officially announced her feat through its X (formerly Twitter) account.
The post read:
“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 official certification follows a grand culinary spectacle held on September 12, 2025, at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
A Culinary Festival of History and Culture
The record-breaking attempt formed the centerpiece of the “Gino World Jollof Festival with Hilda Baci”, a vibrant event that celebrated Nigeria’s most beloved dish. Thousands of food lovers, fans, and culture enthusiasts trooped to the venue, while millions followed the event online as it trended across social media.
The star attraction was a giant pot of steaming jollof rice, weighing an astonishing 8,780 kilograms. With the support of food brand Gino, Baci and her team worked tirelessly with 200 bags of Basmati rice, tomatoes, peppers, and spices to prepare the massive delicacy.
The Lagos culinary showcase also doubled as a celebration of African culture, music, and food heritage. Guests were treated to live music, food sampling, and engaging activities, turning the record attempt into a full-scale festival.
Among the high-profile attendees were actress Funke Akindele, media personality Enioluwa Adeoluwa, lifestyle influencer Tomike Adeoye, and Pastor Idowu Iluyomade. Also present was Bamidele Abiodun, First Lady of Ogun State, who praised Baci for putting Nigerian cuisine on the world stage.
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From Cook-a-Thon Queen to Jollof Record Holder
This latest milestone builds on Baci’s remarkable journey as a chef and cultural ambassador. She first rose to global prominence in 2023, when she captured international headlines by setting the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual, a feat that earned her widespread admiration across Africa and beyond.
Now, just two years later, she has extended her legacy by leading an effort that not only set a new world record but also underscored the global appeal of Nigerian jollof rice—a dish often at the center of West Africa’s most famous culinary rivalry.
Speaking after the record confirmation, Baci described the achievement as a moment of pride for Nigeria:
“Jollof rice is more than food; it’s a symbol of our culture, unity, and joy. To share it with the world on this scale is truly special.”
Guinness World Records hailed the attempt as a “remarkable celebration of Nigerian cuisine and community spirit.”
Legacy Beyond the Pot
With her new title as the record holder for the largest pot of Nigerian-style jollof rice, Hilda Baci has cemented her status as one of Africa’s most influential culinary figures. Beyond the spectacle, her success highlights the global potential of African food culture, opening doors for future collaborations and recognition on the world culinary map.
The achievement also carries a powerful message for young Nigerians, especially women pursuing careers in the food industry: resilience, creativity, and passion can elevate local culture onto international platforms.
As the aroma of 8,780 kilograms of freshly made jollof continues to linger in memory, one thing is certain—Hilda Baci has not just broken a record, she has redefined what it means to represent Nigeria through food.
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