Nigerian celebrity chef Hilda Baci has once again etched her name into the global spotlight after officially setting a new Guinness World Record for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice. The achievement, confirmed on Monday, saw Baci and food brand Gino deliver a staggering total of 8,780 kilogrammes (19,356 lb 9 oz) of the iconic West African dish.
The record-breaking attempt took place at the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos, where thousands of supporters, including food enthusiasts, celebrities, and dignitaries, gathered to witness the historic feat. The atmosphere was electric as massive pots of steaming jollof rice were prepared, showcasing Nigeria’s culinary richness on the international stage.
Guinness World Records confirmed the achievement via its official X (formerly Twitter) account, posting: “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 announcement was met with widespread celebration across social media, with Nigerians at home and abroad hailing Baci’s accomplishment.
This is not the chef’s first brush with global fame. In 2023, Hilda Baci captured worldwide attention with her record-breaking cook-a-thon, which cemented her reputation as a culinary powerhouse. Her latest achievement builds on that legacy, further positioning her as a cultural ambassador for Nigerian cuisine.
In the days leading up to the official confirmation, Guinness World Records had hinted at the milestone, reposting a video from the Lagos event and cheering her on with the message: “What’s cookin’? Best of luck to @hildabacicooks who’s attempting a new record for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice today.”
The collaboration with Gino, a popular food brand, added a significant layer of visibility to the attempt. Organizers ensured that the monumental serving was not only about breaking records but also about celebrating community, as portions of the jollof were shared with attendees and distributed to charitable causes.
Observers have described the feat as a major cultural win for Nigeria, underscoring the global appeal of jollof rice, a dish that has long been a point of pride in West Africa. By setting the record, Hilda Baci has helped reinforce Nigeria’s culinary heritage on a world stage.
With this latest triumph, Baci has solidified her reputation as one of Nigeria’s most prominent chefs and a figure of inspiration. Her journey continues to inspire young talents in the culinary industry while spotlighting Nigerian food traditions for international recognition.
