By Prosper Mene
Chef Damilola Adeparusi who is widely known as Chef Dammy, has publicly congratulated Hilda Baci for securing the Guinness World Record for the largest serving of jollof rice, a beloved Nigerian dish.
The milestone, verified by Guinness World Records on September 15, 2025, ignited nationwide pride and added a new chapter to the playful West African “jollof wars.”
On September 12, 2025, Hilda Baci, the 28-year-old chef who rose to fame with her 2023 93-hour cooking marathon record, led a team in Victoria Island, Lagos, to prepare an extraordinary 8,780 kg (19,356 lb 9 oz) of Nigerian-style jollof rice.
The massive dish, cooked in a custom 23,000-liter steel pot over nine hours, required 1,200 kg of gas, 4,000 kg of basmati rice, 600 kg of onions, 500 cartons of tomato paste, 164 kg of fresh goat meat, and 220 kg of Gino Asun and peppered chicken cubes for seasoning.
Sponsored by the Gino brand, the event drew thousands of spectators, including Nollywood star Funke Akindele, and featured music, dancing, and a festive atmosphere.
The jollof rice was distributed to the crowd, ensuring no waste, and symbolized community and culinary pride. “This record is for Nigeria, for Africa, and for everyone who believes food brings us together,” Baci posted on social media, celebrating the collective effort.
Chef Dammy, who gained attention in 2023 for her 120-hour cook-a-thon attempt shortly after Baci’s marathon, shared a video message on September 17 congratulating her peer. “Big congratulations to Hilda Baci for cooking the biggest pot of jollof rice to feed thousands,” Dammy said, praising the achievement as a victory for Nigeria’s culinary scene. She also noted sending private congratulations and thanked Gino for supporting the event. Addressing online buzz suggesting she might attempt a similar record, jokingly speculated as the largest pot of beans, Dammy clarified, “I’m focused on building my brand and mentoring others, not chasing another record.”
The gesture has stirred varied reactions online. While some netizens praised Dammy’s sportsmanship, others continued the lighthearted rivalry narrative that has followed the two chefs since 2023.
Baci’s record showcases Nigeria’s culinary talent and also strengthens its stance in the west African debate over the best jollof rice.
