For several hours last Monday, the Nigerian social media scene was abuzz with excitement. The aroma of what was being cooked couldn’t be felt beyond a kitchen in Lekki, Lagos, but the world was captivated as Nigerian chef Hilda Bassey Effiong, better known as Hilda Baci, cooked her way into the history books.
Those familiar with Baci may remember her victory in the 2021 Jollof Rice competition, where she outcooked her Ghanaian counterpart. This time, Baci was in the global spotlight for a different reason. She set out to break the World Record for the longest marathon cooking session, which was previously held by London-based Indian chef Lata Tondon, who set the record in 2019 with 87 hours, 45 minutes, and 00 seconds. By the end of Monday, Baci had achieved an astonishing 100 hours of continuous cooking.
Her journey began the previous Thursday and lasted until the evening of Monday. Although the Guinness World Records organization stated it was verifying the process, Nigerians had no doubt that another citizen had put the country in a positive global light. From President Muhammadu Buhari to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and from presidential candidates and politicians to millions of Nigerians and the corporate community, everyone celebrated this extraordinary achievement, which was marked by hard work, tenacity, and determination.
Regardless of the official recognition from Guinness World Records, Baci had broken the record in the eyes of Nigerians. The nation celebrated her achievement without waiting for confirmation. Dana Airline, one of Nigeria’s leading airlines, announced it would support Baci with a year of free tickets. This was announced on Dana Air’s Twitter handle @DanaAir. Ememobong Ettete, the Chief Operating Officer of Dana Airline, stated that the proud Nigerian brand would always support the creativity, efforts, and innovation of Nigerian youths. “We have always blazed the trail in supporting the arts, entertainment, healthcare, and culture. We will be supporting Hilda’s local travels for one year and are inspired by her. We will also support her mum with three months of free local flights, and we thank her for giving us an amazing daughter,” read the announcement.
Twenty-seven-year-old Hilda Bassey Effiong, known as Hilda Baci, began cooking on Thursday, May 11, aiming to surpass Tondon’s record. Baci started her career as a chef in 2020 with her brand @Myfoodbyhilda. She embarked on her journey to break the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon on May 11 at Amore Gardens, Lekki, Lagos, and concluded it on May 14. Baci exceeded the existing world record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual with a total of 100 hours, preparing over 250 recipes during the live-streamed event.
President Buhari shared in the joy of Baci’s achievement. In a statement by his spokesman, Mr. Femi Adesina, on Monday in Abuja, he noted Baci’s impressive track record, including her dazzling performance at the 2021 Jollof Face-off Competition. He praised her for preparing mouth-watering dishes that won the top prize and settled a long-standing rivalry with Ghana over who makes the best Jollof rice. According to him, Baci’s drive and ambition have brought greater interest and insight into the uniqueness of Nigerian cuisine, adding that her success serves as a cultural icon with significant tourism benefits, hoping more young people will follow in her footsteps. The President thanked the sponsors of the Hilda Baci Cook-a-thon, government officials, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, celebrities from the vibrant music and film industries, and fans for their support, which brought glory to the nation.
Governor Sanwo-Olu described Baci’s accomplishment as a testament to the Nigerian spirit. He said the chef was an incredible inspiration and motivator who embodied the values of the nation. “You can see the Nigerian spirit coming out from her; the resilient spirit that Lagos is known for. We can also feel the Akwa Ibom spirit. Big congratulations to Chef Hilda Baci on breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest hours spent cooking. I had the privilege of visiting and tasting her amazing dishes yesterday. The flavor, passion, and dedication she puts into her work are unparalleled. Hilda, you have made Lagos proud, and your accomplishment is a testament to the Nigerian spirit. Keep cooking up greatness!” the governor said.