Celebrity chef Hilda Baci has completed her ambitious attempt to cook the world’s largest pot of jollof rice, drawing massive crowds and national attention at the Gino World Jollof Festival in Lagos.

Baci, 28, prepared 200 bags of rice in a giant 22,619-litre pot measuring six metres wide and six metres tall, finishing the task in just under nine hours. Although she had originally planned for 250 bags of Basmati rice, the number was reduced to 200 due to weighing challenges.

The event, staged at Car Park B of Eko Hotel and Suites, saw thousands of food lovers, vendors, and entertainers turn out in support. After cooking, the jollof rice was distributed to more than 30,000 people in takeaway packs, with attendees also encouraged to bring coolers to take home portions of the surplus.

The Federal Government praised Baci’s record-breaking quest, describing it as another showcase of Nigeria’s creativity and excellence on the global stage. Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, represented by Dr Olalekan Fadolapo, Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, commended the chef’s determination and innovation.

“This remarkable feat is not only about jollof rice,it is a symbol of the ingenuity and resilience of young Nigerians. We encourage others to follow her example and channel their creativity into ventures that promote both personal success and national pride,” Idris said.

The event was graced by several influencers and Nollywood stars, including Funke Akindele, Bamike Olawunmi-Adenibuyan, Enioluwa Adeoluwa, and Tomike Adeoye, who joined fans in celebrating Baci’s milestone.

If confirmed by Guinness World Records, Hilda Baci will secure her place in history as the chef behind the world’s largest pot of jollof rice.