Nigerian chef Hilda Bassey, who is widely known as Hilda Baci, achieved a remarkable milestone on Monday as she broke the Guinness World Record for the longest individual cooking time.
As of 8:32 am on Monday, Baci had cooked for an astonishing 88 hours and 32 minutes, surpassing the previous record set by Indian chef Lata Tondon in 2019. Tondon’s previous title-winning cooking session lasted for 87 hours, 45 minutes, and 00 seconds.
Baci commenced her four-day cooking marathon challenge on May 11 at the Amore Gardens. Despite already securing the world record, the 27-year-old chef intends to continue cooking to further extend the record.
When asked about her motivation for undertaking this challenge, Baci revealed that it had always been one of her greatest aspirations. She also emphasized that this opportunity allows her to share positive stories from Africa through the dishes she prepares.
“The journey to the cook-a-thon started five years ago. 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,” she said.
Hilda Baci’s quest to etch her name in history has created a tremendous buzz among Nigerians, who continue to rally their support for her both on social media and at the cook-a-thon venue, Amore Gardens in Lekki, Lagos State.
Notably, numerous dignitaries have expressed their backing for Baci’s endeavor, commending her determination and resilience.
Distinguished personalities such as President-Elect Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, and Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun have all shown their support for Baci’s pursuit. They have praised her unwavering spirit and determination.
On a visit to the Amore Gardens on Sunday, Governor Sanwo-Olu personally cheered on the chef, offering words of encouragement. Additionally, prominent figures such as Pastor Bolaji Idowu from Harvesters International Christian Centre Lagos and actor Charles Okocha, among others, have also paid visits to the talented chef.