Nigerian celebrity chef Hilda Baci has made history once more by setting a new Guinness World Record for cooking the largest pot of Nigerian-style Jollof rice. On September 13, 2025, in a massive culinary feat held on Victoria Island, Lagos, Baci prepared an astounding 8,780 kilograms (approximately 19,356 pounds) of the beloved West African dish, captivating thousands of spectators and earning international recognition.

The event took approximately nine hours and involved an enormous custom-made pot measuring six meters wide and six meters tall, with a capacity of 22,619 liters. Despite a moment of tension when the pot buckled twice during weighing, no food was lost, and Guinness World Records officially confirmed the achievement days later via their social media platform. “New record: Largest serving of Nigerian style Jollof rice – 8,780 kg achieved by Hilda Baci and Gino in Victoria Island, Lagos,” the announcement read.

Baci, aged 28, expressed immense pride and attributed the success to collective effort: “This achievement also belongs to the people of Nigeria as they all contributed.” The ingredients were meticulously measured, including 4,000 kilograms of rice, 500 cartons of tomatoes, 600 kilograms of onions, and 168 kilograms of goat meat, exemplifying the scale and precision of the project.

The world record is a crowning moment in Baci’s rapidly rising culinary career. She initially gained fame in 2023 by breaking the record for the longest cooking marathon, cooking continuously for 93 hours and 11 minutes. Though that record was surpassed, Baci’s new achievement has elevated her status as a global culinary ambassador of Nigerian cuisine.

Culinary experts and cultural commentators laud Baci for boosting Nigeria’s rich food heritage on the world stage. Chef and TV personality Eniola Adewale commented, “Hilda’s record is not just about food, but identity, culture, and pride. She inspires young chefs across Africa to dream big.”

The event also turned into a cultural festival with entertainers, prominent Nollywood stars, and influencers joining the crowd, creating a celebratory atmosphere that showcased Nigerian creativity and unity beyond the kitchen.

This landmark achievement is expected to open international doors for Baci, who has plans to expand her culinary influence beyond Nigeria. She envisions culinary projects across Africa and collaborations with global chefs and institutions to promote African gastronomy worldwide.

In summary, Hilda Baci’s record-breaking preparation of Nigeria’s iconic Jollof rice is a landmark event in the culinary world and a catalyst for Nigerian culture’s rising global appreciation. Her ongoing journey symbolizes resilience, innovation, and the power of food as cultural diplomacy. The world is watching as this record-breaking chef takes bold steps toward international acclaim.