Nigerian celebrity chef Hilda Baci has embarked on an ambitious journey to set a new Guinness World Record, this time for cooking the largest pot of Jollof rice. The monumental attempt, which commenced on a Friday, is not merely about achieving another record; it's a vibrant celebration aimed at spotlighting Nigerian culinary culture on the global stage, uniting food enthusiasts, and championing the rich tapestry of African cuisine. Jollof rice, a dish deeply embedded in the cultural heritage across West Africa, serves as a powerful unifying symbol of the region's shared traditions.

The "World Jollof Festival with Hilda Baci," also referred to as the "Gino World Jollof Festival," is the backdrop for this historic culinary feat. Initially scheduled for Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, the event's venue was relocated to Eko Hotel Car Park B in Victoria Island, Lagos, to comfortably accommodate the thousands of registered attendees, with over 20,000 expected to witness the spectacle. At the heart of the attempt is a custom-built pot of staggering proportions, measuring 6 meters wide, 1.1 meters tall, and 1.3 meters deep, designed to hold an estimated 22,619 liters of Jollof rice. Hilda Baci plans to utilize approximately 250 bags of rice to fill this colossal pot, aiming for an 80 percent capacity.

This endeavor follows Hilda Baci's previous success in May 2023, when she earned international acclaim by setting the Guinness World Record for the longest individual cooking marathon, clocking an impressive 93 hours and 11 minutes. While that record was later surpassed by Irish chef Alan Fisher, who cooked for 119 hours and 57 minutes, Baci's current challenge underscores her continued dedication to culinary excellence and cultural promotion.

The event has garnered significant support and attention. Actress Funke Akindele was among the notable guests, cheering Hilda on and engaging with the enthusiastic crowd. Pastor Bolaji Idowu of Harvesters International Christian Centre offered prayers and words of encouragement as Baci commenced her record attempt. Adding a personal touch, Hilda’s mother, Linda, herself a chef who runs Calabar Pot and previously trained Hilda, joined her daughter on Friday, assisting in the preparation of the jollof sauce. Beyond the record attempt, the festival offers a comprehensive experience with food exhibitions, cultural showcases, live entertainment, and immersive activities, all designed to celebrate the beloved Jollof rice.

The entire process is being meticulously monitored by officials, and once completed, the attempt will be reviewed by Guinness World Records for official verification. Supporters continue to gather, eagerly watching Baci as she strives to create what is anticipated to be the world’s largest pot of the popular African dish.