Celebrity chef and former Guinness World Record holder, Hilda Baci, is embarking on a new culinary challenge, aiming to set a new record for the world's largest pot of jollof rice. The highly anticipated event, dubbed the "Gino World Jollof Festival," is scheduled to take place today, Friday, September 12, 2025, in Lagos.
The record attempt, which has been in the works for two years, will see Baci cook a massive amount of jollof rice using a specially designed pot with a capacity of 22,619 liters. Baci has stated that she plans to use 250 bags of rice and an equally large amount of other ingredients, including tomatoes, peppers, and seasonings, to create what she hopes will be "the most delicious, largest pot of Nigerian jollof rice you have ever tasted."
The event, which is being held in partnership with culinary brand Gino, was originally slated for Muri Okunola Park. However, due to overwhelming public interest and a registration list of over 20,000 people, the venue was changed to Eko Hotel Car Park B to safely accommodate the expected crowds.
In a statement, Baci expressed her excitement and gratitude for the support, stating, "The outpouring of love and support since we announced the attempt has been mind-blowing... That is why moving to Eko Hotel Car Park B is so important; it gives us the space to welcome everyone safely and create the unforgettable experience this moment deserves."
The cooking marathon, which is free to attend, has already received a public show of support from Guinness World Records, who wished Baci and her team "best of luck." Baci's previous record-breaking attempt for the longest individual cooking marathon in May 2023 captivated a global audience and solidified her status as a culinary icon.
The "Gino World Jollof Festival" promises to be more than just a record attempt; it will feature food exhibitions, cultural showcases, and live entertainment to celebrate jollof rice as a symbol of Nigerian identity, resilience, and community. Baci has assured the public of the hygiene and quality of the meal, even sharing a video of herself personally washing the giant pot.
