The Federal Government has applauded celebrated Nigerian chef Hilda Baci for her remarkable attempt at cooking the world’s largest pot of jollof rice, describing it as a milestone that not only highlights her personal resilience but also shines a positive light on Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
Baci successfully concluded the culinary challenge on Friday at the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos. Using a specially crafted pot measuring six meters in width, she cooked an enormous quantity of jollof rice, a dish that is not only beloved across West Africa but also a cultural symbol of unity, festivity, and pride in Nigeria. The effort now awaits official recognition and verification from the Guinness World Records team, which will confirm whether the feat qualifies as a new world record.
Speaking through the Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Olalekan Fadolapo, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, hailed Baci’s determination and hard work. He emphasized that her effort represents the perseverance and creativity that Nigerians are admired for around the world.
“The Federal Government celebrates Hilda Baci’s remarkable achievement in once again projecting Nigeria positively on the global stage. Her drive for excellence and her resilience embody the spirit Nigerians are known for worldwide,” Idris stated.
The Minister went further to note that Baci’s attempt should serve as a source of inspiration for millions of young Nigerians. He stressed that her journey is a living example of how ambition, consistency, and dedication can turn dreams into achievements recognized internationally.
“Every young Nigerian must understand that true success is built on hard work, consistency, and dedication. Hilda has demonstrated that with focus and proper planning, any Nigerian can gain international recognition and bring pride to the country,” Idris added.
Beyond celebrating Baci, the Federal Government also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives and platforms that highlight Nigeria’s cultural richness and creative talent. According to Idris, such feats are not only personal victories for individuals but also collective triumphs for the nation, as they strengthen Nigeria’s image globally.
“On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government, I wish Hilda Baci the very best. Her victory is Nigeria’s victory, and we are proud to stand with her as she contributes to our nation’s growing legacy of achievements,” the Minister concluded.
Hilda Baci’s name is not new on the international stage. She rose to prominence in 2023 when she shattered the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon, spending 93 hours and 11 minutes behind the stove. That accomplishment, which instantly made headlines across the globe, turned her into a household name and positioned her as one of Nigeria’s most visible cultural ambassadors.
Her latest attempt builds upon that legacy, further solidifying her reputation as a determined and innovative chef who uses her talent to showcase Nigerian cuisine to the world. Jollof rice, the centerpiece of her recent record attempt, is a dish that often sparks passionate debates across West Africa, particularly between Nigeria and Ghana. By attempting to cook the largest pot of the dish, Baci has reignited pride in Nigerian culinary traditions and sparked excitement within the food and entertainment community.
Observers at the event praised not only the sheer size of the pot and the logistical effort required but also the quality and taste of the jollof rice itself. Thousands of supporters turned up to witness the spectacle at Eko Hotel, underscoring the wide admiration for Baci’s daring challenges and her ability to unite people through food.
For many Nigerians, her achievement is more than a record attempt; it is a reminder that the nation’s cultural identity is vibrant, dynamic, and worthy of global recognition. Baci’s ability to balance ambition with community impact has made her a role model, especially for young women aspiring to make their mark in unconventional fields.
As the world waits for official confirmation from the Guinness World Records, the celebrations in Nigeria highlight just how much Baci’s efforts mean to the nation. Whether or not the record is formally certified, her attempt has already succeeded in boosting national pride, inspiring countless youths, and reminding the global community of Nigeria’s immense cultural and creative wealth.
With her growing influence, Baci is poised to remain at the forefront of efforts to promote Nigerian cuisine and culture internationally. Her journey demonstrates that food is not just nourishment but also a powerful tool for storytelling, diplomacy, and unity.
In applauding her bold step, the Federal Government has effectively recognized the broader significance of her work: the power of individual determination to spark collective joy, pride, and identity. For Hilda Baci, the giant pot of jollof rice is more than just a dish — it is a statement that Nigeria’s talent, creativity, and ambition know no bounds.
