Jumoke Odetola Defends Hilda Baci, Calls Out Critics of Her Jollof Rice Record Attempt

Nollywood actress Jumoke Odetola has come to the defense of celebrity chef Hilda Baci following online criticisms that trailed her latest Guinness World Record attempt.

Over the weekend, Baci hosted the much-anticipated “Hilda Baci Jollof Festival” in Lagos, where she attempted to cook the largest pot of jollof rice. The event pulled thousands of attendees and notable personalities, including Funke Akindele, Enioluwa Adeoluwa, Tomike Adeoye, Pastor Idowu, and Bamidele Abiodun, wife of the Ogun State Governor.

But while many Nigerians celebrated the feat, some social media users attempted to diminish her efforts with negative commentary.

Reacting via her Instagram page, Jumoke Odetola condemned the backlash and questioned why the success of a woman often triggers hostility.

“It takes real courage to attempt something extraordinary, to dream big and bring it to life. Instead of bashing, place your right hand on your chest and ask yourself—why am I triggered by the success of a woman making her mark?” she wrote.

She went on to urge critics to self-reflect, noting that bitterness, toxicity, and hatred often stem from unresolved personal pain.

Opinion

Hilda Baci’s journey has become more than just about food—it is a story of resilience, vision, and the audacity to dream big. From her 2023 cooking marathon that earned her global recognition to this bold attempt at making the largest pot of jollof rice, she has consistently showcased courage and creativity.

What’s disheartening, however, is how quickly some people try to water down such achievements instead of celebrating them. As Jumoke rightly pointed out, perhaps the discomfort many feel is less about Baci’s success and more about what it mirrors in their own lives—the unpursued dreams, the abandoned goals, the fear of failure.

Instead of criticizing, we could ask ourselves: What can I learn from Hilda’s courage? How can her story push me to step out of my comfort zone?

In the end, celebrating others does not dim our light—it inspires us to shine even brighter. Hilda’s success should not trigger envy but serve as a reminder that extraordinary things are possible when passion meets persistence.

✨ At its core, this isn’t just about jollof rice; it’s about daring to do something remarkable—and refusing to let the noise of negativity drown the sound of progress.