Hilda Baci, a renowned food influencer and Guinness World Record holder, embarked on a remarkable culinary endeavor on Friday, September 12, 2025, aiming to cook the largest pot of Nigerian Jollof rice ever created. The venue for this ambitious attempt was the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, Nigeria, a setting that befitted the scale and significance of the event. As news of the undertaking spread, anticipation built, drawing massive crowds of diverse demographics, from Gen Z and millennials captivated by Baci’s online presence to seasoned food enthusiasts eager to witness a culinary spectacle. Celebrities also graced the occasion, adding to the electrifying atmosphere.
The sheer volume of attendees created logistical challenges, with long queues snaking not only outside the hotel but also within its grounds. Those who had pre-registered online faced further delays as they waited to verify their email confirmations, a process that became a bottleneck amidst the growing restlessness of the crowd. Security personnel worked diligently to manage the influx, striving to maintain order within the already overflowing venue. The scene depicted a palpable buzz of excitement mixed with the inherent difficulties of managing a large-scale public event. The palpable anticipation underscored the widespread interest in Baci’s endeavor and the cultural significance of Jollof rice in Nigeria.
Baci’s ambitious project centered around a specially commissioned giant pot, boasting a staggering capacity of 22,619 liters. Her initial goal was to fill the pot to 80% capacity, a target that translated to an impressive 5,278 kilograms of raw basmati rice, approximately 264 bags. However, in a display of audacious ambition, Baci adjusted her target upwards, setting her sights on utilizing a whopping 250 bags of rice. This last-minute change only heightened the drama and anticipation surrounding the event.
The moment cooking commenced, the atmosphere erupted in a wave of enthusiastic support. The crowd roared its encouragement, fueling Baci’s determination as she embarked on the arduous task ahead. The energy surrounding the event was infectious, a testament to Baci’s influence and the unifying power of food, particularly a dish as beloved as Jollof rice within Nigerian culture. The scene was captured and shared on social media platforms, further amplifying the event’s reach and adding to the collective excitement. The commencement of cooking marked the transition from anticipation to active participation, with the crowd becoming an integral part of Baci’s record-breaking attempt.
This culinary feat attempted by Hilda Baci underscores the evolving landscape of culinary arts and its intersection with social media and popular culture. Baci’s status as a food influencer allowed her to leverage her online presence to transform a traditional cooking endeavor into a large-scale public spectacle. The event transcended a mere cooking demonstration, becoming a cultural moment that brought people together, highlighting the power of food to connect and inspire. Baci’s endeavor not only aimed to break a world record but also to celebrate Nigerian cuisine and its global appeal.
The scale of the event and the meticulous planning involved in executing it are further testaments to the rising prominence of food influencers and their ability to generate significant public interest. The choice of Jollof rice, a dish deeply ingrained in West African culinary traditions, adds a layer of cultural significance to the event. Baci’s attempt to break a world record while simultaneously celebrating a beloved dish highlights the potential of culinary events to become powerful platforms for cultural expression and community engagement. The event also showcased the evolving role of social media in shaping culinary trends and amplifying the voices of food enthusiasts and influencers.
