Nigerian cuisine took centre stage in Lagos on Friday as celebrity chef Hilda Baci launched her Guinness World Record bid for the Largest Pot of Jollof Rice.
Baci is attempting to cook 250 bags of rice in a massive 22,619-litre pot, a feat that drew food enthusiasts, influencers, well-wishers, local vendors and fans to the event grounds.
While the giant Jollof pot was the star attraction, the gathering evolved into a broader celebration of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. Tagged the Gino World Jollof Festival, the occasion featured a wide variety of delicacies.
Food stalls served roasted plantain, roasted potatoes and fish with pepper sauce, local soups and several varieties of pepper soup. Guests also sampled traditional drinks such as kunu nzaki, zobo, tigernut and soy milk, alongside small chops including puff puff, mosa and samosas, as well as snacks like potato chips seasoned with assorted flavours.
Nigerian actor and content creator Charles Born praised the initiative, saying it underscored the growing global recognition of Nigerian cuisine.
“Associating with Hilda and the brands supporting her means our food is being put on the map even more,” he said.
Vendors also noted the curiosity of visitors eager to discover new foods and drinks. Zuwaira Salisu, Chief Executive Officer of Zee Foods, recalled how a guest enquired about kunu nzaki, a millet-based drink, and promised to return for a purchase after learning about its health benefits.
For caterer and food enthusiast Oghene Tejiri, the festival was a chance to savour regional dishes and celebrate Nigeria’s culinary diversity.
“I moved around and just had to come to where they had the food vendors, and I got small chops. It was very, very nice. I also had their tigernuts, which tasted so, so nice. Beyond Jollof Rice, we have amazing meals, down to our local soups and dishes from different states,” she said.
With food, music and a festive atmosphere, Baci’s record attempt became more than a culinary challenge. It served as a cultural showcase, affirming her role not only in breaking records but also in spotlighting Nigerian cuisine on the global stage.