Nigerian chef Hilda Effiong Bassey, popularly known as Hilda Baci, has been officially recognized by Guinness World Records, making her a three-time record holder.
The latest recognition came after Ms. Baci and her team broke the record for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice, an achievement she had only recently discovered to be counted as two separate records.
“I woke up a three-time Guinness World Records holder and I’m still trying to wrap my head around it,” Baci said. “What I thought was one record turned out to be two. Five months after the initial announcement, I found out there was more.”
The record-setting event took place on September 12, 2025, in Victoria Island, Lagos, when Baci and her team prepared 8,780 kilograms (19,356 lb 9 oz) of jollof rice, enough for 16,600 portions. All portions were distributed according to Guinness World Records’ rules to prevent food waste.
Guinness World Records confirmed the achievement on their official website, noting: “The largest serving of rice is 8,780kg (19,356 lb 9 oz) and was achieved by Hilda Baci and Gino (all Nigerian), in Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria, on 12 September 2025. This record was achieved while attempting the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice.”
Baci credited her team and close collaborators for the success. “The very first person I called was @oreoluwa_atinmo, because this journey, this vision, and this record would not have been possible without her. Honestly, God is faithful. This feels like such a beautiful reminder that even when you think you’ve seen the full picture, God can still say, ‘There’s more,’” she stated.
