The Nigerian social media scene was electrified last Monday as Chef Hilda Bassey Effiong, also known as Hilda Baci, set out on a remarkable culinary endeavor in Lekki, Lagos. While the delicious smells were confined to her kitchen, the world followed her journey with rapt attention.
Hilda Baci, who previously triumphed in the 2021 Jollof Rice competition, capturing the title from a Ghanaian rival, now faced a new challenge. She aimed to surpass the World Record for the longest cooking marathon, a record held by Indian chef Lata Tondon since 2019, with a time of 87 hours, 45 minutes, and 00 seconds. By the end of Monday, Baci had accomplished a staggering 100 hours of continuous cooking.
Her journey began on Thursday and ended on Monday evening. While the Guinness World Records organization was still verifying her attempt, Nigerians celebrated her achievement. From President Muhammadu Buhari to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and from politicians to everyday Nigerians, the nation rejoiced in Baci’s demonstration of hard work and perseverance.
Even without the official confirmation from Guinness World Records, Nigerians acknowledged Baci’s achievement. Dana Airline, a leading airline in Nigeria, pledged to support Baci with a year of free flights. Dana Airline’s COO, Ememobong Ettete, highlighted the company’s dedication to nurturing the talents and creativity of Nigerian youth, celebrating Baci’s inspiring effort and extending free flight support to her mother for three months.
At 27, Hilda Baci, who launched her culinary career in 2020 with her brand @Myfoodbyhilda, began her record-setting cooking marathon on May 11 at Amore Gardens in Lekki. Over 100 hours, she cooked more than 250 recipes, with the event streamed live.
President Buhari praised Baci’s culinary prowess, recalling her victory in the 2021 Jollof Face-off Competition, which helped settle the long-standing rivalry with Ghana over the best Jollof rice. He emphasized that Baci’s determination has enhanced the global appreciation of Nigerian cuisine and serves as an inspiration for young Nigerians. The President also thanked the sponsors, government officials, including Governor Sanwo-Olu, celebrities, and fans for their support, which brought national pride.
Governor Sanwo-Olu lauded Baci’s record-breaking effort as a symbol of the resilient Nigerian spirit. He described her as an inspirational and motivating figure whose dedication has made Lagos and the entire nation proud. “Her accomplishment showcases the unyielding Nigerian and Akwa Ibom spirit,” he stated, congratulating her for her extraordinary dedication and the exceptional quality of her culinary creations.