In a historic culinary achievement, Nigerian celebrity chef Hilda Baci has once again placed the nation on the global stage by successfully completing her attempt to cook the largest pot of jollof rice, setting a new Guinness World Record.
The event, held on Friday, September 12, 2025, attracted national attention and reaffirmed Nigeria’s cultural pride in one of West Africa’s most beloved dishes.
The feat was not only about cooking; it symbolized innovation, unity, and the growing influence of African cuisine on the international scene.
Jollof rice, often considered the heartbeat of West African celebrations, was at the center of this record-breaking attempt, and Hilda Baci’s success has ignited fresh conversations about Nigeria’s creative potential.
Hilda Baci, already a household name following her Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon in 2023, embarked on this new challenge with meticulous preparation.
The attempt involved cooking thousands of servings of jollof rice in a single massive pot, a process that demanded both technical skill and careful coordination.
According to her team, every stage of the cooking was supervised by Guinness World Records adjudicators and independent witnesses to ensure transparency.
The final measurement confirmed that Hilda Baci had indeed achieved the largest pot of jollof rice ever prepared, surpassing the previous record holder.
“This isn’t just about breaking records,” Hilda Baci said after the announcement.
“It’s about showcasing our food, our culture, and our ability as Nigerians to push boundaries. Jollof rice is more than a dish—it’s an identity, and I am proud to share it with the world.”
The celebration was not without debate. Shortly after the announcement, concerns surfaced online about whether all the rice used for the record attempt had been properly washed.
Some critics claimed that such an oversight could undermine the achievement.
Hilda Baci’s team quickly responded, dismissing the allegations and clarifying that strict food hygiene standards were observed throughout the process.
“Every grain of rice used was thoroughly washed and prepared under the supervision of food safety professionals,” the team said in a statement.
“The suggestion otherwise is unfounded. We maintained the highest standards expected of such an international record attempt.”
By addressing the controversy directly, Hilda Baci ensured that the focus returned to the magnitude of the achievement rather than the noise surrounding it.
The Guinness World Record instantly drew reactions from across Nigeria and beyond.
On social media, hashtags such as #HildaBaci, #JollofRiceRecord, and #ProudlyNigerian trended as fans, fellow chefs, and celebrities celebrated her milestone.
Nigeria’s Minister of Information and Culture, Mohammed Idris, described the record as “a proud moment for the country and a reminder of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.”
He praised Baci for inspiring young people to pursue their dreams with determination.
International media also spotlighted the achievement, noting that West African cuisine is steadily gaining recognition on the global stage.
Culinary experts remarked that the attempt would likely spark renewed interest in African food festivals and international dining experiences.
While the record itself is a remarkable feat, its symbolism goes deeper.
For many Nigerians, jollof rice is a cultural emblem tied to weddings, festivals, and everyday family gatherings.
By breaking the Guinness World Record, Baci not only reinforced national pride but also highlighted the unifying power of food.
Analysts note that the feat also has economic implications.
The global attention it attracted may boost tourism, culinary events, and international collaborations for Nigerian chefs.
Local producers of rice, tomatoes, and spices—key ingredients in jollof—also stand to benefit from the heightened exposure.
Baci has hinted that this might not be her last Guinness World Record attempt.
In interviews, she emphasized her passion for innovation in African cuisine and her desire to inspire young Nigerians.
“I want every young person to know that with focus and hard work, no dream is too big,” she said.
“Breaking records is not the end—it is the beginning of showing the world what Africa has to offer.”
Her journey continues to motivate aspiring chefs, entrepreneurs, and creatives across the continent.
Hilda Baci’s Guinness World Record for the largest pot of jollof rice is more than a personal victory—it is a collective win for Nigeria and Africa at large.
Despite minor controversies, the achievement has cemented her status as a culinary trailblazer and a cultural ambassador.
As the celebrations continue, one thing is clear: the aroma of jollof rice has carried Nigeria’s pride across borders, reminding the world that food is not just nourishment but a story of resilience, creativity, and shared identity.