A Nigerian chef, Hilda Baci, has set a new record for cooking the largest pot of jollof rice, a popular West African dish. The attempt, which took place at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, aimed to secure a Guinness World Record. Baci successfully cooked approximately 200 bags of rice in a massive 22,619-litre pot, measuring six metres wide and six metres tall, over a period of nine hours.
The event, dubbed the ‘Gino World Jollof Festival’, drew a large crowd of fans, food vendors, and entertainers. After the preparation of the jollof rice, it was distributed to over 30,000 people in takeaway packs, with attendees encouraged to bring coolers due to the excess food. The Federal Government of Nigeria commended Baci’s effort, noting that it demonstrates the country’s global excellence. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, expressed optimism that the record attempt would inspire a new generation of young Nigerians to showcase their talents and contribute to national development.
The event was attended by various Nigerian influencers and Nollywood stars, including Funke Akindele and Tomike Adeoye, who joined thousands of fans to support Baci. Students from the Bethesda Home and School for The Blind also lent their support to the chef. Baci had initially planned to cook 250 bags of Basmati rice but reduced the amount to 200 due to weighing challenges. The record-breaking feat is a significant milestone for Baci and showcases Nigerian cuisine on the global stage.
The Guinness World Record attempt is subject to verification, but if successful, it would be a notable achievement for Nigerian cuisine. Jollof rice is a beloved dish in West Africa, and this record attempt highlights its popularity and cultural significance. The event also demonstrates the potential for Nigerian cuisine to gain international recognition, with Baci’s achievement serving as a testament to the country’s rich culinary heritage. With this record, Nigeria continues to make its mark on the global culinary scene, promoting its unique flavors and dishes to a wider audience.
