Fans, well-wishers, media crews and food vendors converged at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, on Thursday as Nigerian chef Hilda Baci embarked on her attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the largest pot of Jollof rice.
A correspondent observed that crowds gathered outside the venue before 8:30 a.m. and were granted entry around 9:20 a.m., though cooking had yet to commence as of 1:30 p.m.
Baci announced earlier that over 20,000 people had registered to attend. She aims to cook 250 bags of rice in a 22,619-litre pot, with the food served to attendees.
The venue took on a festive atmosphere, with food vendors offering Nigerian delicacies, snacks and drinks. Content creators and influencers roamed with cameras, while the excitement heightened when music began at 12:56 p.m., prompting many to dance.
Security operatives and paramedics were stationed across the venue to ensure order and safety.
Nollywood actor Charles Born, who described Baci as a close friend, expressed delight at witnessing her latest effort. “I’m really excited for my friend. One thing about Hilda is that once she’s convinced about something, she does it. I love the energy here. Everybody is waiting, eating, and our food is getting more attention,” he said.
Blessing Okechukwu, Creative Director of BAT Events and Chops and one of the vendors at the venue, called the occasion more than just a record attempt. “For me, it’s a historic moment of pride, dishing out a taste of Nigeria’s unity and vibrancy to the world,” she said.
Baci, who gained global attention in 2023 with her Guinness World Record ‘Cook-a-thon’, is seeking to add another milestone to her culinary journey with this Jollof rice record attempt.
Jollof rice is a dish closely tied to cultural pride in countries such as Nigeria and Ghana.
(NAN)