Nigerian celebrity chef and Guinness World Record holder, Hilda Baci, has announced an ambitious plan to cook the largest pot of Jollof rice ever made. The historic event is scheduled for September 12, 2025, and will take place in Lagos in partnership with Gino, a popular seasoning and culinary brand.
In a recent post on her Instagram page, Baci revealed that the giant pot would measure six metres wide and six metres tall. The scale of this cooking event is unprecedented and is expected to draw wide attention both locally and internationally.
“Almost two years ago, I had the dream to cook the largest pot of Jollof rice ever made,” Baci wrote. “And now, with Gino Naija and YOU, that dream is coming alive. Six meters wide. Six meters tall. September 12, we make history together. Because what is Jollof without you to share it with?”
This announcement is set to excite many Nigerians who hold Jollof rice dear as a cultural symbol and a source of national pride. Jollof rice, a rich, spicy rice dish cooked in tomato sauce and local spices, is widely considered the heartbeat of West African cuisine. It is a staple at celebrations, family gatherings, and street food stalls across Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
Hilda Baci, whose full name is Hilda Effiong Bassey, became a household name in Nigeria and around the world after her Guinness World Record-breaking cooking marathon in 2023. The chef cooked continuously for 100 hours in Lagos, a feat that earned her global recognition and made her a symbol of culinary endurance and creativity.
In a video shared alongside her announcement, Baci explained that the upcoming event is more than just an attempt to break records. “It’s a cultural celebration that goes beyond food,” she said. “Some dreams keep us awake until we make them reality. In 2023, it was the Hildebassi Cookathon that took the world by storm. This year, it’s Jollof, the heartbeat of West Africa. A taste that tells our story. It’s more than cooking. It’s a celebration of our food, our culture, music and us.”
The planned cooking event will not only set a new record but also shine a spotlight on Nigerian culinary traditions. The involvement of Gino seasoning, a brand that many Nigerians grew up with, adds a nostalgic touch and underscores the local flavour of the event.
Jollof rice has long been at the centre of a friendly rivalry between West African countries, particularly Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal, each claiming to have the best recipe. This rivalry has inspired various festivals, cooking competitions, and social media debates, making the dish a unifying symbol of cultural pride in the region.
Baci’s plan to cook a giant pot of Jollof rice will likely attract food lovers, journalists, and tourists to Lagos, further promoting Nigeria’s rich food heritage and the creative talents of its young people.
The last big cooking event of such scale was Baci’s own Cookathon in 2023, where she stirred the pot for 100 hours non-stop, proving her dedication and stamina. That event put her on the world stage and made Nigerians proud.
Now, as she prepares for her new record attempt, the excitement is building. The giant pot, described as six metres wide and tall, will require significant preparation, including sourcing enough rice, tomatoes, spices, and fuel to cook the massive quantity of food.
Organisers say the event will be family-friendly and open to the public, offering an opportunity for people to witness history and celebrate together. Music, dance, and other cultural performances are also expected to feature, making it a full cultural festival.
The event’s significance goes beyond setting a Guinness World Record; it is a moment to celebrate Nigerian food culture and bring communities together. In a country known for its diverse cuisines and rich traditions, this giant pot of Jollof rice symbolizes unity, heritage, and creativity.
As September 12 approaches, Nigerians and Jollof rice lovers worldwide will be watching closely. Will Hilda Baci’s giant pot become the biggest in the world? Will she once again bring global recognition to Nigeria’s culinary talent? All signs point to a resounding yes.
