Nigerian chef, Hilda Baci breaks Guinness World Record for ‘marathon cooking’

In a dazzling display of culinary prowess, Nigerian chef Hilda Effiong Bassey, known by her renowned moniker Hilda Baci, has boldly surpassed the current Guinness World Record holder.

With unwavering determination, she now stands poised to shatter the record for the “longest cooking marathon by an individual,” having astonishingly reached a staggering 87 hours and 50 minutes mark.

Embarking on this extraordinary journey, the visionary restaurateur ignited her stove at 4 pm on a fateful Thursday, steadily eclipsing the achievements of the previous record holder in the early hours of Monday morning. If officially endorsed by the Guinness World Records, she will triumphantly dethrone the current titleholder, Lata Tondon, an Indian chef who achieved a remarkable uninterrupted cooking feat of 87 hours and 45 minutes in 2019.

Amidst the captivating ambiance of Amore Gardens in Lekki, Lagos State, Baci’s awe-inspiring cooking marathon continues to unfold. Not even the relentless rain could deter Nigerians from flocking to physically support the visibly exhausted chef, including a myriad of esteemed celebrities.

On the momentous morning of Monday, Baci gracefully entered the realm of the fourth day, solidifying her position as a true culinary maverick. Her indomitable spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence propelled her to victory, as she emerged triumphant in the inaugural Jollof Face-off Competition of 2021, seizing the grand prize of $5,000.

The Guinness Book of Records, a renowned compendium of human and natural world records, serves as the ultimate arbiter of greatness. Originally published in 1955 by the illustrious Guinness Brewery in Ireland, this iconic reference book has since become an unparalleled source of knowledge, captivating readers across the globe.

To secure a coveted spot within this prestigious tome, individuals or groups must meticulously submit compelling evidence to the discerning Guinness World Records team and successfully navigate a rigorous verification process. Only those who pass this arduous test of authenticity are deserving of an esteemed world record listing.

This recent triumph joins a distinguished lineage of Nigerians who have left an indelible mark on the annals of the Guinness World Records. From Gbenga Ezekiel, who soared to new heights with the record for the most skips in a minute on one leg, to Divine Ikubor, also known as Rema, whose magnetic hit song “Calm Down” claimed the title of the first No.1 hit on The Official MENA Chart, these exceptional individuals have solidified Nigeria’s place on the global stage of excellence.

Bose Omolayo, Chukwuebuka Ezugha, Victor Richard Kipo, Folashade Oluwafemiayo, Chinonso Eche, Vincent Okezie, Haruna Abdulazeez, Peter Aho, and Bayo Omoboriowo have all etched their names in the Guinness World Records with astonishing feats ranging from powerlifting prowess to impressive footballing skills and awe-inspiring photographic endeavors.