Dare Babalola
Hilda Baci has kick-started the cooking of the largest pot of jollof, aiming at 250 bags of rice.
The record-breaking cook, who gained global recognition in 2023 after smashing the record for the longest cooking marathon, launched the ambitious attempt in Eko Hotels, Lagos before a lively crowd of fans and supporters.
This moment marks the start of a historic challenge to once again secure her place in the Guinness World Records.
She is accompanied by her mother, who has been a major support in Hilda’s journey.
Earlier, Pastor Bolaji Idowu, head pastor of Harvesters International Christian Centre in Lagos, visited the venue to pray for the record breaker.
Celebrities have trooped in, as well as Nigerians who believe in her dream have trooped to the venue.
In an Instagram post shared on Friday, Baci reassured fans and food enthusiasts of the hygiene of the giant pot she intends to use for her record-breaking jollof rice attempt.
The celebrity chef was seen in a viral video personally washing the massive six-metre-wide pot.
In the video, Baci said, “Yes, I can officially confirm this pot is squeaky clean! I personally rolled up my sleeves and washed it myself.
“In just a few hours, this same pot will be home to thousands of servings of Nigerian Jollof history in the making.”
She continued, “I know you’re probably about to pop your eyeballs out. Why is she inside the pot?
“The reason I’m inside the pot at this moment is because I need to wash the pot.
“I can assure you that once I am done washing the interior of the pot and I’ve gotten rid of all the liquid, I’m going to rinse it again, and I have brand new mopsticks that I would be using to clean it once again before we use it to cook for you.”
Just last night, the venue was changed from Muri Okunola Park to Eko Hotel car park due to the need for a larger and more prestigious stage for what is expected to be one of Nigeria’s most memorable cultural and culinary celebrations.
Beyond the Guinness World Record attempt, the festival will feature food exhibitions, cultural showcases, live entertainment, and immersive experiences designed to celebrate Jollof rice as a symbol of identity, resilience, and community.
