Nigerian celebrity chef Hilda Baci has once again made history. On Friday, September 12, 2025, she set a Guinness World Record by preparing the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice — a massive 8,780 kilograms (19,356 lb 9 oz). The record-breaking feat took place at Victoria Island, Lagos, in collaboration with food brand Gino.
Guinness World Records Confirms the Feat
On Monday, September 15, Guinness World Records officially announced Baci’s achievement via their X account.
“New record: Largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice – 8,780 kg (19,356 lb 9 oz) achieved by Hilda Baci and Gino in Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria.”
A few days earlier, they had shared a supportive post encouraging Baci as she began the ambitious attempt.
Massive Preparation and Precision
To break the record, Baci used:
-
A custom-built 22,619-liter pot
-
5,278 kg of raw basmati rice (about 264 bags)
She later scaled it down to 200 bags, producing 4,000 kg of cooked jollof rice — enough to feed 20,000 people. Every item was carefully weighed, including the pot itself, as the crane and scale had a 20,000-kg capacity limit.
Lagos Came Alive for the Event
The atmosphere at the venue was nothing short of carnival-like. Thousands of food lovers and fans gathered to witness the historic cook-off.
Notable highlights included:
-
Funke Akindele, who joined Baci to stir the tomato base and praised her perseverance.
-
Attendance by Bamidele Abiodun, First Lady of Ogun State.
-
Celebrity appearances from Kaffy, Tomike Adeoye, Enioluwa, Peller, Veekee James, Tacha, Alex Unusual, Spyro, and more.
Live music, dancing, and cheering turned the event into a true cultural celebration.
Baci’s Growing Culinary Legacy
This new Guinness World Record further cements Baci’s reputation as an ambassador of Nigerian cuisine. Already famous for her record-breaking cook-a-thon, she continues to spotlight the richness of West African food culture and inspire culinary enthusiasts worldwide.
