Nigerian chef, restaurateur and entrepreneur Hilda Baci has been named a Guinness World Records (GWR) ICON, earning global recognition for her remarkable achievements in the culinary world and her influence as one of Africa’s most celebrated food personalities.
The honour marks another milestone in Hilda Baci’s inspiring journey, which began at an early age while assisting at her mother’s restaurant in Abuja. Known for her exceptional memory and customer service skills as a child, she developed a passion for food that would later define her career.
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Crowd Surges as Hilda Baci Attempts Guinness Record for Largest Pot of Jollof Rice
Although she studied sociology and explored opportunities in television and acting—including hosting the Nigerian TV programme Dine on a Budget—Hilda eventually embraced her calling as a professional chef in 2020. She later launched My Food by Hilda and built a massive online following through her cooking content, recipes and culinary tips.
Reflecting on the lessons that shaped her success, Hilda shared three principles she considers essential: “Consistency beats talent. Systems beat hustle. And humility keeps you growing.”
Record-Breaking Journey
Hilda gained international fame in May 2023 when she attempted the longest cooking marathon in Lekki, Lagos. She cooked continuously for 93 hours and 11 minutes between May 11 and 15, attracting widespread attention from supporters across Nigeria and beyond.
The event became a national sensation, drawing thousands of spectators and millions of online viewers. Interest in her attempt was so intense that demand for updates reportedly overwhelmed the Guinness World Records website.
While her cookathon record was later surpassed, Hilda’s achievement cemented her status as a cultural icon and inspired a new generation of young Nigerians to pursue their ambitions with determination.
The current holder of the longest cooking marathon record is Evette Quoibia.
Another Guinness World Record
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Hilda added another achievement to her name on September 12, 2025, when she partnered with Gino Nigeria to create the world’s largest serving of rice in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The record-breaking dish weighed an astonishing 8,780 kilograms and required:
4,000 kg of basmati rice
164 kg of fresh goat meat
Approximately 600 kg of Hilda’s signature jollof pepper mix
The massive meal was so heavy that it reportedly bent its specially designed steel cooking pot twice during preparation.
After the record was confirmed, more than 16,600 portions were distributed, ensuring that none of the food went to waste.
Celebrating Nigerian Cuisine
For Hilda, the achievement was about more than setting records—it was an opportunity to showcase Nigerian and West African cuisine on the global stage.
Known for her love of jollof rice, she has often spoken about the cultural significance of local dishes. She also proudly celebrates her Akwa Ibom heritage, highlighting traditional favourites such as Afang soup served with fufu as some of her most cherished meals.
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Her recognition as a Guinness World Records ICON reflects not only her accomplishments as a chef but also her role in promoting Nigerian cuisine, entrepreneurship and perseverance to a global audience.