Nigerian Chef Hilda Baci has set a new Guinness World Record with 100 hours for the “longest cooking marathon by an individual.” Baci, whose real name is Hilda Effiong Bassey, surpassed the current record holder, Indian chef Lata Tondon, by cooking for 87 hours and 50 minutes. The competition began on Thursday at Amore Gardens in Lekki, Lagos State, where Baci owns a restaurant.
During her marathon cooking session, Baci had to prepare a minimum of three meals per day and was allowed a five-minute break every hour. She was required to prepare traditional Nigerian dishes, including soups, stews, and rice dishes. To keep her energy up, Baci drank water and ate small snacks throughout the competition.
Baci’s ongoing record-breaking attempt drew support from Nigerians, including several celebrities, who came out in the rain to cheer her on. The chef hit the four-day mark on Monday morning, surpassing the current world record of 87 hours and 45 minutes.
If her feat is verified by the Guinness World Records team, Baci will take the Guinness World Record title. The Guinness Book of Records is a reference book that contains human and natural world records. It was first published in 1955 by the Guinness Brewery in Ireland and has since become one of the world’s most well-known and frequently read reference books.
To qualify for a world record listing, individuals or groups must submit proof to the Guinness World Records team and undergo a verification process. Baci’s record-breaking attempt was monitored by a team of observers, who ensured that she followed the rules and regulations set by Guinness.
Baci, who won the maiden edition of the Jollof Face-off Competition in 2021, pocketing a grand prize of $5000, has become a role model for many young people in Nigeria who are interested in pursuing careers in the culinary arts. She has proven that with hard work and determination, it is possible to achieve great things and break records.
