On September 12, 2025, the city of Lagos pulsed with excitement as celebrity chef Hilda Baci set a new world record, preparing the largest-ever pot of jollof rice—a staggering 8,780 kilograms of the beloved West African dish. The event, which unfolded at upscale Victoria Island, was more than just a display of culinary prowess; it was a celebration of community, culture, and the unifying power of food. According to Guinness World Records, Baci’s achievement surpassed the required minimum of 4,700 kilograms, cementing her place in culinary history and sparking inspiration across the region.
The feat was not accomplished in isolation. Baci partnered with the well-known brand Gino Nigeria, and together, they orchestrated a spectacle that drew more than 8,000 spectators. The logistics behind the cook-a-thon were mind-boggling: nine hours of continuous cooking, 1,200 kilograms of gas, and a retrofitted pot so massive it required a crane for weighing. But even with all the planning, drama found its way into the mix when the pot collapsed under the crane’s weight during the official measurement. Despite the mishap, the record was still confirmed by Guinness World Records, which announced the achievement on September 16, 2025, via its official X (formerly Twitter) account.
For those who witnessed the event, the atmosphere was electric. Crowds gathered early, eager to see history in the making and perhaps snag a plate of the legendary jollof rice. When the cooking was done, the mountain of rice was carefully portioned into 16,600 plates and distributed to the gathered crowd. The air was thick with aromas of pepper and tomato, and the spirit of togetherness was unmistakable. Baci herself captured the mood succinctly, saying, “It took nine hours of fire, passion, and teamwork.” The rice, she added, was “served with joy, love, and community.”
Jollof rice, for the uninitiated, is more than just a meal. It’s a culinary symbol of West Africa, a dish that graces celebrations, family gatherings, and everyday tables alike. Made from rice cooked in a spicy, tomato-based sauce, it’s a staple that inspires friendly rivalry among countries in the region—each claiming their version is the best. In Lagos, on this remarkable Friday, the dish became a vessel for pride and unity, transcending borders and backgrounds.
Baci’s accomplishment is even more impressive when viewed in the context of her career. She’s no stranger to the Guinness World Records. In 2023, she briefly held the title for the longest cooking marathon, clocking in an astonishing 93 hours and 11 minutes behind the stove. That record was later surpassed in 2024 by Irish chef Alan Fisher, but Baci’s marathon set off a wave of ambition among young West Africans. Suddenly, the idea of breaking world records wasn’t just a distant dream—it was a tangible goal, sparking attempts in everything from book reading marathons to skipping rope sessions and even the longest speech.
The logistical challenges of Baci’s latest record were formidable. The sheer scale of the project required meticulous planning and a dedicated team. The retrofitted pot, designed to hold nearly nine metric tons of rice, had to be engineered for both safety and function. The use of 1,200 kilograms of gas speaks to the enormity of the task—imagine the heat required to cook that much rice evenly! And then there was the matter of serving: 16,600 plates, each one filled and handed out to eager onlookers, a testament to the event’s commitment to sharing and community.
According to BBC, the drama surrounding the weighing of the pot added a dose of suspense to the proceedings. As the crane lifted the enormous vessel, it buckled under the strain, causing the pot to collapse. For a brief moment, the crowd held its breath, uncertain whether the attempt would be validated. But Guinness World Records, after reviewing the evidence, confirmed the achievement, noting that the required weight had indeed been surpassed.
The significance of this event extends far beyond the numbers. In a region where jollof rice is both a comfort food and a source of national pride, Baci’s record resonated deeply. The outpouring of support, both in person and online, reflected a collective sense of achievement. For many, it was a moment to celebrate not just Baci’s skill, but the resilience and creativity of Nigerian youth. The fact that the rice was shared freely with thousands underscored the communal spirit that defines so many West African traditions.
The event also highlighted the growing trend of record-breaking attempts across the continent. As reported by Reuters, Baci’s previous marathon cooking challenge had already ignited a fervor for Guinness World Records among young people in the region. From the longest book reading to the most extended skipping rope session, these ambitious feats are about more than personal glory—they’re about putting West Africa on the global map, challenging stereotypes, and inspiring a new generation to dream big.
Of course, no story about jollof rice would be complete without a nod to the friendly rivalry it inspires. Nigerians, Ghanaians, Senegalese, and others each claim their own version is the definitive one. But on this day in Lagos, the debate was set aside as thousands came together to witness and partake in a record-breaking achievement. The event was a reminder that, while competition can be fun, shared experiences and communal joy are what truly matter.
For Baci, the achievement is the latest in a string of high-profile successes. Her journey from marathon cook to record-breaking chef has made her a household name, not just in Nigeria but across West Africa. Her story is one of perseverance, ambition, and a deep love for her craft. As she said after the event, it was “fire, passion, and teamwork” that made it all possible.
Looking ahead, it’s clear that Baci’s influence will continue to be felt. Her record has already inspired countless others to pursue their own dreams, whether in the kitchen or beyond. And as Guinness World Records confirmed her achievement, the message was clear: with determination, collaboration, and a little bit of spice, anything is possible.
In Lagos, as the last plates of jollof rice were handed out and the crowds began to disperse, there was a palpable sense that something special had happened. It wasn’t just about breaking a record—it was about coming together, celebrating culture, and showing the world what’s possible when passion meets purpose.