Nigeria’s Hilda Baci breaks Guinness world record for longest cooking time

Hilda Bassey Effiong, often known as Hilda Baci, a Nigerian chef, has broken the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking time.

Hilda beat the previous record set by Indian chef Lata Tondon on Monday morning at 7:45 a.m. Tondon had spent 87 hours, 45 minutes, and 00 seconds preparing meals.

Hilda, on the other hand, has been cooking for 100 hours and counting as of the time of publishing this report. Her initial goal was to cook for 96 hours, but she has now surpassed it with 100 hours plus cooking time.

“The journey to the cook-a-thon started five years ago,” Hilda Baci said. “It is one of my biggest aspirations and I am glad that I took the bold step to embark on this adventure. I have taken time to prepare for this psychologically and I am proud to finally take on this challenge.”

“The cook-a-thon is also an opportunity to tell some of the positive stories that come from Africa through the meals that we make.

“This attempt is also proof of the strength young people can exhibit with the right platform and support. I look forward to receiving support from people across the world to achieve this feat.”

Numerous Nigerians, especially young people, are gathered at the scene of the record-breaking event and are cheering Hilda Baci on. The whole of Africa is rooting for Hilda and the support has been massive so far.

The cook was cheered up by the governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who visited her at the Amore Gardens in the Lekki district. In addition, the chef had visits from Bolaji Idowu, the senior pastor of Harvesters International Christian Centre Lagos, and Charles Okocha, an actor.

Along with the other important Nigerian politicians who have shown support for Hilda Baci, these others include President-elect Bola Tinubu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Former Anambra State Governor and Presidential runner Peter Obi.

Baci is no stranger to cooking contests; she competed in the inaugural edition of the Jollof Face-off Competition in 2021. The skilled chef made Nigeria proud by winning the competition and taking home a $5,000 grand prize.