Nigerian culinary sensation Hilda Baci has once again made history as the Guinness World Records officially confirmed her achievement for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice.
The Guinness World Records recognition comes after months of anticipation and celebration from Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, cementing Baci’s place as one of Africa’s rising culinary icons.
The Guinness World Record was set on Friday, September 12, 2025, at Victoria Island, Lagos, in partnership with popular food brand Gino.
The event, which drew thousands of Lagos residents, food lovers, and dignitaries, saw Baci and her team prepare an astonishing 8,780 kilograms (19,356 lb 9 oz) of jollof rice.
The feat immediately attracted global attention, making headlines across international media platforms.
According to Guinness World Records, the achievement marked a new chapter in Nigeria’s cultural pride, as jollof rice is widely celebrated as a unifying dish across West Africa.
For the record attempt, Baci used over 200 bags of rice, amounting to 4,000 kilograms, cooked in a custom-built 22,619-liter capacity pot designed for the challenge.
Her goal was to fill the pot up to 80%, and she successfully did so, producing enough food to serve more than 20,000 people.
Guinness World Records congratulated Baci during her attempt, sending words of encouragement via social media and later issuing an official confirmation.
“New Record: Largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice – 8,780 kg achieved by Hilda Baci and Gino in Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria,” the statement read.
The historic Guinness World Record event was graced by several prominent Nigerians, including the First Lady of Ogun State, Bamidele Abiodun, and celebrated Nollywood actress Funke Akindele, both of whom praised Baci’s resilience and dedication.
Abiodun described the effort as “a powerful reminder of Nigerian creativity and perseverance,” while Akindele applauded the Guinness World Record recognition that the achievement brings to Nollywood, Afrobeat, and now, Nigerian cuisine.
Beyond the dignitaries, Lagos residents and fans trooped out in large numbers to witness the Guinness World Record attempt.
Many shared their experiences on social media platforms, further amplifying the global buzz around the achievement.
One of the standout aspects of Baci’s Guinness World Records attempt was her decision to share the massive meal with the public.
Thousands of Lagosians, including street children and underprivileged communities, benefited from the cooked jollof rice.
This gesture not only highlighted the cultural significance of food as a unifying force but also showcased Baci’s commitment to social impact.
“It wasn’t just about breaking a Guinness World Records,” Baci said in her post-event remarks.
“It was about showcasing our food culture, our strength as Nigerians, and the spirit of giving.”
This latest milestone comes barely a year after Hilda Baci made headlines with her Guinness World Records attempt for the longest cooking marathon, which she later received recognition for.
Known for her determination and innovative culinary approach, Baci has steadily carved out a reputation as one of Africa’s most inspiring young chefs.
Industry observers believe this Guinness World Records further solidifies Nigeria’s place on the global culinary map.
According to food experts, the event not only celebrated the resilience of Nigerian cuisine but also positioned jollof rice—often a point of pride and rivalry between West African nations—as a global cultural symbol.
Analysts suggest that Baci’s Guinness World Records success could inspire a new wave of culinary entrepreneurship in Nigeria, potentially boosting food tourism and local agribusiness.
With Lagos increasingly recognized as a hub for creativity and innovation, events like this strengthen Nigeria’s global soft power.
As the applause continues, Hilda Baci has hinted that her Guinness World Records feat is only the beginning.
She plans to expand her culinary brand internationally while continuing to promote Nigerian cuisine on global platforms.
For now, Nigerians are celebrating a proud moment, one that once again places the country on the world stage for innovation, resilience, and cultural pride.
