Guinness World Record holder and celebrity chef Hilda Bassey, known as Hilda Baci, has announced that the giant pot used in her historic jollof rice feat is not for sale or auction.
Speaking at a press conference at Gino Nigeria’s Lagos office, Hilda emphasized that the pot is more than cookware it represents history, innovation, and national pride.
“So many people have asked about that pot. Some want to buy it, some want us to auction it,” she said. “But it’s more than just cookware — it’s a symbol of history, of faith, of innovation.”
She explained that the pot, custom-made for the event, holds deep sentimental and symbolic value, and will serve as a lasting source of inspiration.
“Ten, twenty years from now, we want people to see it and remember what it stood for,” she said.
“That was the biggest pot of jollof rice — not just in Nigeria, but in the world.”
Hilda revealed plans to restore the pot and make it available for public viewing.
“No, we’re not keeping it in its current shape. It’ll be restored, and hopefully, you’ll come across it on your way to work or even in a museum someday,” she said.
On September 19, 2025, Hilda Baci set a new Guinness World Record for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice, with an official weight of 8,780 kilograms (19,356 lb 9 oz). The event took place in Victoria Island, Lagos, in partnership with Gino.
Guinness World Records confirmed the achievement on X (formerly Twitter) “New record: Largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice – 8,780 kg achieved by Hilda Baci and Gino in Lagos, Nigeria.”
The celebration attracted huge crowds, celebrities, and fans, turning the event into a vibrant, carnival-like gathering.
The pot used was custom-built to hold 22,619 litres, with an initial target of filling 80% using 250 bags of rice. Ultimately, 200 bags were used, as weight restrictions — capped at 20,000 kg including the pot — limited the total.
Among the many notable guests in attendance were Funke Akindele, Bamidele Abiodun, Kaffy, Veekee James, Tacha, Papaya, Enioluwa, Alex Unusual, and Spyro.
Hilda Baci first rose to fame in 2023 after completing a 100-hour cook-a-thon, earning her initial Guinness World Record and widespread acclaim. Her recent accomplishment has once again spotlighted Nigerian culinary excellence on the global stage.
Advertisement
