A Nigerian culinary figure achieved a Guinness World Record on Monday after preparing the largest pot of jollof rice. The record attempt took place on September 12, 2025 at Victoria Island, Lagos, where celebrity chef Hilda Baci produced 8,780 kilograms of the dish, almost twice the required 4,700 kilograms. Jollof rice, widely regarded as a staple across West Africa, is prepared from rice simmered in a sauce made of tomatoes, peppers, and spices. The achievement was recognized because it represented not only the scale of the cooking but also the cultural value of a dish central to regional identity. Experts noted that the accomplishment reflects the growing visibility of African cuisine in the global food industry and its potential to gain further prestige through international recognition.

The cooking lasted for nine hours and required careful coordination from a large team. During the weighing process, the retrofitted pot collapsed under a crane, creating a moment of tension before the official confirmation. The rice was later distributed to hundreds of spectators who gathered to witness the attempt, creating a festive environment. Analysts explained that such record-breaking activities can generate tourism, foster cultural resonance, and inspire other aspirants to attempt Guinness challenges. However, challenges also exist, including the immense cost, labor, and logistical planning necessary for events of this magnitude. Baci previously held the record for the longest cooking marathon in 2023, which lasted 93 hours and 11 minutes, though it was later surpassed by Irish chef Alan Fisher. Specialists emphasized that this new achievement not only reaffirmed Baci’s culinary prowess but also symbolized the tenacity and innovation of a younger generation aiming for global acclaim.