Nigerian chef Hilda Bassey, popularly known as Hilda Baci, made history on Monday as she broke the Guinness World Record for the longest individual cooking time. Baci’s remarkable achievement came at 08:32 am when she surpassed the previous record set by Indian chef Lata Tondon in 2019, who cooked for 87 hours, 45 minutes, and 00 seconds. Baci’s cooking marathon began on May 11 at Amore Gardens, and the 27-year-old is determined to extend her record.
When asked about her motivation for taking on this challenge, Baci revealed that it had been one of her biggest aspirations. She expressed her excitement at embarking on this adventure and emphasized the opportunity it provided to share positive stories from Africa through the meals they eat. Baci stated, “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.”
She also highlighted the significance of this attempt as proof of the strength and potential exhibited by young people when provided with the right platform and support. Baci eagerly looked forward to receiving support from people worldwide to help her accomplish this feat.
Baci’s quest to make history has garnered tremendous support and attention from Nigerians, both on social media and at the venue of the cook-a-thon, Amore Gardens in Lekki, Lagos State. Notable dignitaries, including President-Elect Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former governor of Anambra State Peter Obi, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, and Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, have rallied behind Baci’s endeavor, praising her resilience and determination.
In a show of encouragement, Governor Sanwo-Olu paid a visit to Baci at Amore Gardens in the Lekki area of Lagos State on Sunday. Additionally, prominent figures such as Pastor Bolaji Idowu from Harvesters International Christian Centre Lagos and actor Charles Okocha have also visited the chef, further boosting her morale.
Baci’s record-breaking cooking marathon has not only captivated the attention of the Nigerian community but has also highlighted the spirit of determination and accomplishment. Her passion for sharing positive stories from Africa through the medium of food is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and diversity that the continent possesses.
As Baci continues to cook, she carries with her the hopes and support of her fellow Nigerians and individuals from around the world, eagerly awaiting her successful completion of this extraordinary feat.