Nigerian chef, Hilda Baci in a remarkable feat that captured the hearts of millions has officially broken the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual.
Surpassing the previous record set in 2019, Hilda cooked tirelessly for an astonishing duration, aiming to elevate Nigerian cuisine and inspire young African women to pursue their dreams.
Hilda’s record was announced by the Guiness World Record Team in a video tweet on Tuesday, June, 13, 2023.
“After reviewing all the footage, we’re delighted to announce that Hilda Baci is the new record holder for the longest cooking marathon (individual) ???? Watch the video to find out the official time we’ve awarded Hilda and read the full explanation below ????,” the official account posted.
After reviewing all the footage, we're delighted to announce that Hilda Baci is the new record holder for the longest cooking marathon (individual) 💫
Watch the video to find out the official time we've awarded Hilda and read the full explanation below 👇 pic.twitter.com/bf352ndxWO
— Guinness World Records (@GWR) June 13, 2023
Motivated by her desire to showcase the richness of Nigerian culinary traditions, Hilda embarked on this extraordinary journey with a mission in mind. “I wanted to put Nigerian cuisine on the map,” she shared, radiating determination. “I also decided to break this record to truly push my limits and test my abilities.”
Preparation was key for Hilda’s ambitious endeavor. She meticulously crafted a comprehensive 35-item menu, serving as her guide throughout the grueling marathon. Ensuring she had all the necessary ingredients, Hilda and her dedicated team made provisions to procure additional food items as needed, ensuring a seamless cooking experience throughout the marathon.
Hilda’s record-breaking attempt swiftly became a social media sensation, captivating the attention of millions in Nigeria and beyond. Through an Instagram live stream, her loyal fans followed her progress, eagerly witnessing her culinary journey unfold in real-time.
The overwhelming support generated an unprecedented surge in online engagement, leading to the temporary crash of the official Guinness World Record website for two days.
Throughout her incredible endeavour, Hilda received visits from distinguished Nigerian personalities who offered their unwavering support.
The Vice President of Nigeria, Professor Yemi Osinbajo; the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu; and renowned singer Tiwa Savage were among the high-profile figures who graced Hilda’s kitchen, lending their encouragement and admiration.
Born Hilda Effiong Bassey, the award-winning chef in an exclusive interview with TV3, revealed that she faced several challenges during her extraordinary journey to the cooking feat that lasted for 100 hours.
According to Hilda who spoke to AJ Sarpong, the stress associated with the marathon pushed her to experience her menstrual cycle and cramps earlier than anticipated.
Due to this, she had to take showers during her breaks to change and maintain personal hygiene.
As she, further explained, being on her period reduced the time she had for rest, complicating an already strenuous endeavour.
“I was on my period the entire time and I think that sort of made it extra hard. What that meant was it took away from the time I had to rest,” she told 3 Entertainment Correspondent AJ Sarpong.