Celebrity chef Hilda Baci has officially set a Guinness World Record for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice, with the final dish weighing 8,780 kilograms (19,356 lb 9 oz). The record, achieved in partnership with Gino in Victoria Island, Lagos, has been confirmed by Guinness World Records.

Announcing the milestone on X, Guinness World Records stated: “New record: Largest serving of Nigerian style jollof rice – 8,780 kg (19,356 lb 9 oz) achieved by Hilda Baci and Gino in Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria.”

Baci, who gained international recognition in 2023 after setting the record for the longest individual cooking marathon, began her latest attempt at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, drawing a large crowd of supporters, food enthusiasts, and celebrities. The event featured music, dancing, and public participation.

The chef explained that the specially designed cooking vessel had a capacity of 22,619 litres, with the plan to fill it to 80 per cent. The challenge required approximately 5,278 kilograms of basmati rice, equivalent to 264 bags, though Baci rounded it to 250 bags for the attempt.

Several notable personalities attended the event, including Nollywood actress Funke Akindele, who joined Baci at the cooking station, and the First Lady of Ogun State, Bamidele Abiodun. Other attendees included dancer Kaffy, Tomike Adeoye, Enioluwa, Peller, Veekee James, Femi Atere, Samuel Banks, Alex Unusual, Folagbade Banks, and Spyro.

Guinness World Records had earlier expressed support for the attempt, posting on X: “What’s cookin’? Best of luck to @hildabacicooks who’s attempting a new record for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice today.”

Baci’s previous cook-a-thon in 2023 lasted over 93 hours and earned her global recognition. She said the new record continues her effort to spotlight Nigerian cuisine, inspire young culinary enthusiasts, particularly women, and draw international attention to the country’s food culture.