More Than 20,000 Gather as Hilda Baci Makes Giant Jollof in Lagos

Lagos came alive today as celebrity chef and Guinness World Record holder, Hilda Baci, took on a historic challenge cooking the world’s largest pot of Nigerian jollof rice, Sponsored by Gino World Jollof Festival.

Originally slated for Muri Okunola Park, the venue was shifted to Eko Hotel Car Park B to accommodate the over 20,000 registered attendees, underscoring the overwhelming public interest in the event.

Sponsored by leading seasoning brand Gino (under GBfoods Nigeria), the festival is a cultural celebration designed to spotlight jollof rice as a symbol of Nigerian identity, resilience, and unity, while also showcasing West African cuisine to the world.

Hilda Baci’s monumental task involved cooking 250 bags of rice in a custom-built pot with a capacity of 22,619 liters, filled up to 80%. The feat was more than a Guinness World Record attempt  it represented the communal pride and culinary excellence of Nigerians.

Beyond the cooking marathon, the event featured:
Food cooking exhibition, Live music and entertainment, Immersive experiences for attendees

The atmosphere was further energized by the presence of celebrities, including Funke Akindele and other entertainers, who came to cheer Hilda on. The Federal Government also lent its support, boosting morale and reinforcing the national significance of the occasion.

Whether or not the record is officially certified, the Gino World Jollof Festival has already left a lasting legacy. It positioned Lagos as a hub of culinary innovation and cultural pride, while celebrating the power of food to inspire and unite people across communities.