Hilda Baci has been officially recognized as an icon by the Guinness World Records. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights her remarkable achievements and significant contributions in her field. Being named an icon by such a renowned institution is a testament to her impact and enduring legacy.
It underscores her status as a notable figure who has left a lasting impression on many. This recognition not only celebrates her accomplishments but also serves to inspire others to pursue excellence and make their own mark in their respective areas.
Guinness World Record (GWR) titles are not just about receiving recognition or bragging rights. Although it’s impressive to be acknowledged as a record holder, these accomplishments usually involve more than just the surface–level achievement. They often reflect a deeper understanding of one’s own capabilities, a strong belief in oneself, and a genuine drive to succeed. This is especially true in the case of GWR ICON Hilda Baci, whose record–breaking feats highlight not only her talent but also her unwavering determination and passion for what she does.
This inspiring Nigerian restaurant owner started her journey in the culinary world while she was still in primary school, assisting her mother at their restaurant in Abuja. She recalls, “I always earned a lot of tips because I would remember the entire menu by heart and I had a quick tongue!”
After completing her studies in sociology, she tried out different career paths, including hosting a Nigerian TV show called *Dine on a Budget* and even taking on acting roles. Yet, the call of the kitchen was irresistible. In 2020, she decided to become a professional chef and launched her restaurant, which is now known as *My Food by Hilda*.She also started sharing recipes and cooking tips online, which helped her grow a strong and active social media presence, eventually earning her millions of followers.
When asked by GWR about the most valuable lessons she had learned from her career as a chef, Hilda shared three timeless pieces of advice for living well: “Consistency beats talent. Systems beat hustle. And humility keeps you growing.”
In 2023, this remarkable chef and online celebrity embarked on the longest cooking marathon in history, which was watched by thousands of people in Lekki, Lagos. She spent an incredible 93 hours and 11 minutes in the kitchen, from the 11th to the 15th of May, with her tireless efforts being live–streamed for fans across Nigeria and around the world. The level of interest was so high that her devoted supporters overwhelmed GWR’s website with requests for updates on her progress. Although this record has since been broken twice, with the current holder being Liberian–Australian chef Evette Quoibia, who clocked in at 140 hours and 11 minutes, Hilda made a significant and lasting impression.
Her groundbreaking cooking marathon sparked a wave of enthusiasm for record–breaking efforts in Nigeria.
Within just two months, GWR received over 1,500 new applications from the country.
So, what kind of practical advice would she give to someone trying to break an endurance record? She says, “Preparation is everything. Passion alone isn’t enough.” She adds, “You need physical training, mental strength, a reliable support team, proper documentation, and a clear understanding of the guidelines. Take the time to study the rules carefully and make sure you respect the entire process.” And most importantly, “know your ‘why.’ When you feel exhausted and you will your reason for doing it has to be stronger than the discomfort you’re feeling.”
She had to be at her best for her next Guinness World Records challenge too.
On September 12, 2025, Hilda and the brand Gino Nigeria joined forces to set a new record for the largest serving of rice an amazing 8,780 kilograms (19,356 pounds 9 ounces) in Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria. The record–breaking dish was made with an incredible 4,000 kilograms (8,820 pounds) of basmati rice, 164 kilograms (361 pounds 8 ounces) of fresh goat meat, and about 600 kilograms (1,322 pounds) of Hilda’s own jollof pepper mix. The dish was so heavy that it caused the specially made steel pot to buckle twice! And not a single grain was wasted: over 16,600 portions were given out afterward. Hilda described the experience as “nine hours of fire, passion, and teamwork.”
The dish that set the record was jollof rice a staple food across West Africa which gave Hilda’s challenge a unique and special significance in her home country. She told us, “I love rice. Truly, I could eat rice dishes every single day for a year and not get tired of it. There’s something incredibly versatile and comforting about rice it carries so many flavors beautifully.” Being from Akwa Ibom State in Nigeria, she also has a deep affection for Afang soup. It’s a traditional dish made with wild spinach and richly seasoned meats and seafood. She enjoys it most with fufu a smooth, dough–like staple made from cassava. “It’s one of those dishes I love both cooking and eating. It tastes like home.”
What comes next for this inspiring record holder? As you might expect, Hilda is always looking forward, eager to embrace new challenges and broaden her experiences. As a highly skilled and driven businesswoman, one of her main objectives is to grow My Food by Hilda, beginning within Nigeria and eventually taking it global aiming for the UK, the USA, Dubai, South Africa, and beyond, “as a cultural ambassador for Nigerian food done right.”
While she isn’t dismissing the possibility of attempting more records in the future, Hilda makes it clear that any new record attempts must have a meaningful purpose. “For me, records are not just about pushing limits they are about significance. If I ever try another record, it has to be connected to a bigger goal: making an impact, bringing innovation, or promoting cultural representation,” she explains.
Hilda is the first to acknowledge that she feels deeply honored by the wave of record–breaking that her accomplishments and growing fame have sparked. Yet, she views these achievements as part of a larger vision, a way to motivate others to chase their own dreams and ambitions. “If my journey gave someone else the confidence to try something daring, that means more to me than the record itself,” she says. “Records can be broken they’re meant to be. But the real lasting effect is the inspiration, the chain reaction of belief that keeps going long after the record is set.” Words from a true GWR ICON.
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