Chef Hilda Baci has kicked off her attempt to cook the world’s largest pot of jollof rice in Lagos, and hundreds of fans, influencers, and food lovers are flooding the venue. Over 20,000 people registered in advance to attend. Officials relocated the event from Muri Okunola Park to Eko Hotels and Suites to accommodate the large crowd. The Guinness World Records (GWR) has officially acknowledged the attempt and sent her best wishes.
Festival Atmosphere and National Pride
Before the cooking began, Hilda was seen washing the giant pot by hand and praying with her mother for strength and endurance. Meanwhile, fans outside the venue cheered, danced, and waved banners. Food vendors set up stalls, musicians performed, and many attendees documented the moment on social media. The event feels part food contest, part cultural festival, part national celebration. Many say this is Nigeria showing its creativity and unity.
Logistical Challenges and Reactions
With so many people turning up, crowd control became critical. Security agents and paramedics are stationed around the venue. Some attendees earlier faced difficulty entering because the crowd exceeded expectations. Lawyer Deji Adeyanju called the turnout “a serious problem,” pointing to concerns over safety and organization given the large numbers. Despite those challenges, spirits remain high.
Scale of the Attempt
Hilda Baci aims to cook using 250 bags of rice in a specially designed large cooking pot. This massive scale draws comparison to her previous record for the longest cooking marathon. The cooking pot alone requires special cleaning, preparation, and safety checks. Meanwhile, GWR observers are present to ensure the rules are followed strictly.
What This Means for Nigerian Food Culture
Even before the pot is fully filled, many see this attempt as a win for Nigerian cuisine globally. The jollof rice debate already ignites pride and competition across West Africa. By bringing thousands together in Lagos, Hilda Baci underscores how food connects people. Many fans say that regardless of whether Guinness confirms the record, the gathering itself reinforces national identity and cultural impact.
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