Hilda Baci Kicks Off Attempt to Cook World’s Largest Pot of Jollof at Eko Hotel
Guinness World Record holder and celebrated food influencer, Hilda Baci, has once again set Lagos buzzing with excitement as she begins her attempt to prepare the world’s largest pot of Nigerian Jollof at the Eko Hotel and Suites.
The event, which kicked off on Friday, has drawn massive crowds—from Gen Zs and millennials to food lovers and celebrities—all eager to witness history in the making.
The scene outside the venue was almost as dramatic as the cooking itself. Long queues stretched well beyond the hotel’s designated grounds, with attendees struggling to gain entry. Many were held up at the gates, verifying their online registrations, while security battled to manage the restless, eager crowd pressing to be part of the record-breaking spectacle.
Baci revealed that her custom-built pot has a capacity of 22,619 litres, with an initial goal to fill it up to 80 percent. That would have required about 5,278 kilograms of basmati rice (roughly 264 bags). But in her trademark boldness, she raised the stakes—announcing a new target of 25,000 bags of rice.
As the cooking commenced, chants and cheers erupted from supporters, turning the event into a vibrant festival of food, culture, and community spirit.
Opinion: More Than Just Jollof – A Celebration of Nigerian Identity
Hilda Baci’s latest attempt is about far more than breaking another world record. It is a cultural statement. Jollof rice is not just food—it’s identity, pride, and a unifier across Africa. By going big with this feat, Hilda is showcasing Nigeria’s culinary heritage to the world in a way that feels unapologetically bold and inspiring.
The massive turnout also tells a bigger story: Nigerians love to rally behind ambition, especially when it comes with flair. From her cook-a-thon to this mega Jollof challenge, Hilda has mastered the art of combining achievement with entertainment, creating moments that pull people together in joy.
Of course, the chaotic scenes at the gates also highlight the challenge of crowd management at major Nigerian events. But beyond the struggle to get in, the energy of the people reflects the unbreakable spirit of Nigerians who love to celebrate excellence and be part of something historic.
In the end, whether she smashes the record or not, Hilda Baci has already succeeded in reminding the world that Nigeria’s culture is as big, bold, and unforgettable as the giant pot of Jollof she stirs.
