Nigerian chef and content creator Hilda Effiong Bassey, popularly known as Hilda Baci, has officially earned her second Guinness World Record after cooking the largest-ever serving of jollof rice. The new record, confirmed by Guinness World Records in September 2025, recognizes her 6 x 6 meter pot, with a capacity of 22,619 liters, during the cookout event in Lagos. The custom-made pot weighs between 1,425 and 1,430 kg before any food is added.
The record-breaking attempt took place at the Gino World Jollof Festival with Hilda Baci, hosted at Eko Hotels & Suites on Victoria Island. Thousands of fans, celebrities, and food lovers gathered to witness the remarkable feat as Hilda and her team worked for hours to prepare and serve the enormous dish.
According to Guinness World Records, the final verified weight of the jollof rice came in at 8,780 kilograms, requiring large-scale equipment and 200 bags of rice; she initially planned to use 250 bags but adjusted the final number and coordinated a team of chefs and assistants to manage the cooking process. The successful attempt earns Hilda her second Guinness title, following her 2023 achievement for the longest cooking marathon.
The event, however, wasn’t without challenges. There were tense moments during the weighing process, including a brief equipment mishap involving the giant pot, though the verification was eventually completed successfully. The spectacle drew national and international attention, celebrating both the magnitude of the achievement and the cultural significance of jollof rice as a symbol of West African cuisine.
Since achieving her first Guinness World Record in 2023, Hilda Baci has steadily evolved into a household name within Nigeria’s vibrant and fast-rising culinary landscape. Her journey from a passionate homegrown chef to an internationally recognized figure has been marked by unwavering dedication, creativity, and an authentic love for Nigerian cuisine. Through her artistry and commitment, Hilda has managed to blend tradition with innovation, bringing global attention to the rich and diverse flavors that define the country’s food culture.
Her reputation has continued to flourish, earning her widespread recognition not only within Nigeria but also across the international culinary community. Known for her flair in presenting local dishes with a modern twist, she has become a powerful ambassador for Nigerian gastronomy, inspiring a new generation of chefs and food enthusiasts. Over time, her influence has extended well beyond the kitchen; she now uses her growing platform to celebrate and promote Nigerian food through strategic brand collaborations, high-profile public events, and ongoing culinary advocacy.
Through her work, Hilda has proven that Nigerian cuisine deserves a prominent place on the global stage. Her consistent efforts to elevate local flavors and her commitment to excellence continue to define her career, making her one of the most respected voices in Africa’s evolving culinary scene.
Through these ventures, Hilda has built a strong and enduring global presence, inspiring a new generation of chefs and food enthusiasts to take pride in African cuisine. Her success story represents a blend of passion, perseverance, and cultural pride, reflecting the spirit of modern Nigerian entrepreneurship. With this second Guinness World Record to her name, Hilda Baci has further cemented her status as one of Africa’s most respected and influential chefs, as well as a proud and passionate ambassador of Nigerian culinary heritage.
