Hilda Baci’s Record-Breaking Culinary Marathon
Last Monday, Nigeria’s social media was abuzz with excitement as Chef Hilda Bassey Effiong, known as Hilda Baci, embarked on a historic culinary journey in Lekki, Lagos. While the enticing aromas from her kitchen couldn’t be experienced globally, the world watched as Baci cooked her way into the record books.
Hilda Baci, famed for winning the 2021 Jollof Rice competition against a Ghanaian chef, captured international attention for a new reason: breaking the World Record for the longest marathon cooking session. This record was previously held by Indian chef Lata Tondon, who cooked for 87 hours, 45 minutes, and 00 seconds in 2019. By Monday evening, Baci had surpassed this with a remarkable 100-hour non-stop cooking session.
Her marathon began on the previous Thursday and concluded on Monday evening. As the Guinness World Records organization reviewed her attempt, Nigerians celebrated her achievement. From President Muhammadu Buhari and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to citizens across the nation, Baci’s hard work and determination were widely applauded.
Regardless of the official confirmation from Guinness World Records, Baci’s feat was celebrated throughout Nigeria. Dana Airline, a prominent Nigerian airline, offered her a year of free flights in recognition of her accomplishment. Ememobong Ettete, Dana Airline’s COO, praised Baci’s dedication and extended the free flights offer to her mother for three months, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to supporting Nigerian youth’s creativity and innovation.
Hilda Baci, a 27-year-old chef who began her career in 2020 with her brand @Myfoodbyhilda, started her record-breaking cooking marathon on May 11 at Amore Gardens, Lekki. Over 100 hours, she prepared more than 250 recipes, live-streaming the entire event.
President Buhari commended Baci’s impressive culinary skills, recalling her victory in the 2021 Jollof Face-off Competition, which settled the rivalry with Ghana over the best Jollof rice. He highlighted Baci’s success as a cultural milestone with potential tourism benefits and encouraged other young Nigerians to follow her example. He also thanked the event sponsors and supporters, including Governor Sanwo-Olu, for their role in this national achievement.
Governor Sanwo-Olu praised Baci’s accomplishment as a demonstration of the resilient Nigerian spirit. He described her as an inspirational figure whose passion and dedication have made Lagos and Nigeria proud. “Her achievement reflects the indomitable Nigerian and Akwa Ibom spirit,” he said, congratulating her on breaking the world record and commending the exceptional quality of her dishes.