Renowned Nigerian chef and Guinness World Record holder Hilda Baci on Friday began an ambitious quest to prepare the world’s largest pot of jollof rice at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos.
Baci, who in 2023 achieved global recognition for completing the longest cooking marathon, is staging the event under the banner of the “Gino Jollof Festival”, in collaboration with food and seasoning brand Gino.
The record attempt is taking place with a specially built pot about six metres in both width and height, designed to cook 250 bags of rice. Before the cooking began, Pastor Bolaji Idowu of Harvesters International Christian Centre offered prayers for success.
Several social media personalities — including Enioluwa Adeoluwa, Tomike Adeoye, Folagade Banks and Veekee James — were present to support Baci. The festival has drawn large crowds of young people, food enthusiasts and celebrities. According to the organisers, more than 20,000 people registered for the free event.
Baci has reassured attendees that the dish will be both “delicious and hygienic,” promising a record-breaking culinary experience centred on Nigeria’s famous jollof rice.