5 Takeaways on Hilda Baci’s Guinness Attempt to Cook the Largest Jollof

Chef Hilda Baci is trying to set a Guinness World Record for the largest pot of jollof rice. The event in Lagos draws a big crowd and needs careful planning for cooking, safety, and sharing the food. 

Jollof is loved across West Africa, so many people are excited to see how it goes. It’s also a chance to show Nigerian food to the world.

Here are five simple takeaways from the attempt.

1) It’s an official attempt—not a confirmed record (yet)

Hilda Baci began her bid today to set the Guinness World Records title for the largest pot of jollof rice. As of now, it’s in progress; certification comes only after Guinness reviews the evidence.

2) The scale is massive: up to 250 bags of rice and a huge crowd

Organisers say the cook will use about 250 bags of rice, with more than 20,000 people registered to attend, showing both the logistics required and the public interest around the event at Eko Hotels, Lagos.

3) Guinness has strict rules: measure, verify, and no food waste

Large food records require independent witnesses, a qualified surveyor to measure the final output, full compliance with local food-safety laws, and proof that the food is distributed for consumption. Expect detailed weighing, documentation, and controlled serving.

4) Brand Nigeria on show: from cook-a-thon fame to jollof megafeed

Baci’s 2023 cook-a-thon (93 hours 11 minutes) made her a continental name and boosted interest in record attempts across Africa. This jollof push builds on that story, showcasing Nigerian cuisine and hospitality on a global stage.

5) Big community moment: potential feeding and charity impact

Because Guinness requires that the food be eaten, the event can double as a large community meal. If managed well, it will demonstrate strong crowd control, safety, and efficient food distribution at city scale.