Jollof rice chef Hilda Baci recounts Guinness World Record nightmare

Nigerian chef Hilda Baci recounted a dramatic incident that occurred during her Guinness World Record attempt for cooking the largest pot of jollof rice. In a video interview, she described how the giant custom‑made pot collapsed unexpectedly, creating a tense moment for her and her team. The attempt took place on 12 September at the World Jollof Festival in Lagos, where Baci and her crew prepared nearly 8,780 kg of jollof rice in a six‑metre‑wide pot designed to hold 23,000 litres. As a crane lifted the pot for weighing, one side gave way and the support legs collapsed. Fortunately, the food remained intact, and the team acted quickly to keep the process credible and properly documented.

Baci explained that her priority was not the record itself but feeding the crowd that had gathered to taste the dish. She noted that the pot’s failure actually made food distribution easier, calling it a “blessing in disguise.” Her team submitted photographic and video evidence of the weighing to Guinness World Records, which later certified her as the official holder of the record for the largest pot of jollof rice cooked at one time.

The incident highlights the challenges and unpredictability of attempting a Guinness World Record. Baci’s team had spent hours preparing the massive quantity of rice, and the collapse could have derailed their efforts. Their swift response and adaptability ensured that the event remained successful. The World Jollof Festival, an annual celebration of West African cuisine—particularly jollof rice—aims to promote cultural exchange and unity among West African countries. Baci’s achievement has drawn attention to the festival and Nigerian cuisine, showcasing the country’s rich culinary heritage to a global audience.

With her record now officially certified, Baci’s feat is expected to inspire other chefs and food enthusiasts to explore large‑scale cooking and cultural exchange. The episode also demonstrates the importance of teamwork, quick thinking, and adaptability in overcoming unexpected challenges.