Renowned Nigerian chef Hilda Baci has once again etched her name into the Guinness World Records with a groundbreaking culinary feat that has stirred pride across the nation and beyond.
On Friday, 12 September 2025, she officially set the record for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice, with the dish weighing an extraordinary 8,780 kg (19,356 lb 9 oz).
The event, staged in Lagos in collaboration with Gino Nigeria, attracted thousands of food lovers, fans, and well-wishers eager to witness the remarkable achievement. Guinness World Records confirmed the milestone in a statement that celebrated Hilda’s enduring spirit and dedication.
According to the celebrated chef, the record was the result of “nine hours of fire, passion and teamwork.” Preparing the massive dish required 1,200 kg of gas and produced a staggering 16,600 plates of steaming jollof rice, which were shared with the crowd in what she described as a celebration of “joy, love and community.”
The monumental dish was crafted from approximately 250 bags of rice blended with locally sourced tomatoes, peppers, onions, and spices. More than a culinary triumph, it was a bold statement of Nigeria’s rich food culture and the global appeal of its signature dish, jollof rice.
Hilda Baci first captured worldwide attention in 2023 when she broke the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon, a feat that cemented her place in culinary history and transformed her into a cultural icon. Her latest accomplishment not only reaffirms her record-breaking streak but also emphasizes her mission to spotlight Nigerian cuisine on the international stage.
“This achievement is not just about the numbers,” she said, reflecting on the record. “It’s about showing the world the strength of Nigerian cuisine, the resilience of our people, and the beauty of what we can accomplish when we come together.”
The project was supported by a large team of professional chefs, volunteers, and technical experts who ensured that the process adhered strictly to Guinness World Records’ standards. Safety, accuracy, and proper documentation were maintained throughout, reinforcing the credibility of the feat.
Beyond the enormous scale of the dish, the event has been hailed as a cultural milestone, one that strengthens Nigeria’s culinary identity and instills pride nationwide. For many, it was more than just a Guinness World Record—it was a celebration of heritage, unity, and the global recognition of one of West Africa’s most beloved dishes.
With her second Guinness World Record now secured, Hilda Baci has once again proven that food is not only nourishment but also a powerful tool for cultural diplomacy and national pride.
