By Johnson Esther- The stage is set and the aroma of history is in the air as Nigerian chef and culinary icon, Hilda Baci, takes on yet another world record attempt today at the World Jollof Festival, Eko Hotel Car Park B.
Baci, who became a household name in May 2023 after cooking for 93 hours and 11 minutes in a marathon that earned her global recognition and the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual, is once again stepping into uncharted culinary territory.
This time, she aims to cook the world’s largest pot of Jollof rice. The feat involves using 250 bags of Basmati rice (5,278kg) and a custom-built pot with a staggering 22,619-litre capacity. According to her plan, at least 80% of the pot will be filled with steaming Jollof. Supporting ingredients include 1,583kg of Gino tomato paste, garlic, ginger, thyme, rosemary, curry, and other spices carefully curated to uphold the signature West African flavor.
Originally scheduled to be held at Muri Okunola Park, the event was relocated to Eko Hotel Car Park B after over 20,000 people registered to attend. Organizers explained that the new venue provides a more secure and spacious setting for the anticipated crowd and the accompanying festival activities, which include food exhibitions, cultural showcases, live entertainment, and interactive experiences.
“To accommodate this event safely and comfortably, we have moved the event to Eko Hotel Car Park B, a venue that truly reflects the scale and ambition of what we are about to achieve,” said Oreoluwa Atinmo, Marketing Director of GBfoods Nigeria.
Hilda Baci herself expressed gratitude and excitement, noting the overwhelming public support. “The love and encouragement have been incredible. This isn’t just about setting a record it’s about celebrating Jollof rice, our culture, and giving Nigerians and the world a shared moment of pride.”
The atmosphere at the venue is expected to be electric, with thousands of supporters ready to cheer Baci on as she attempts to etch her name once more in Guinness World Records history.
While her previous record was overtaken in late 2023 by Irish chef Alan Fisher, Hilda’s resilience and determination have continued to inspire millions. Today’s challenge reaffirms her role as a cultural ambassador for Nigerian cuisine and showcases the unifying power of food.
Will the “Jollof Giant” succeed in securing her place in the record books again? All eyes are on Lagos as the pots heat up and history simmers.
