On Monday, President Muhammadu Buhari applauded Hilda Bassey, popularly known as Hilda Baci, a Nigeria’s young chef for finding her way into the Guinness Book of Records, and placing Nigeria on the global spotlight.
In a statement by presidential spokesman, Femi Adesina, the President lauded the young culinary expert for turning her talent and passion into a career, and for resilience, perseverance, and consistency in cooking.
The statement read, “The President notes the antecedents of the restaurateur, who dazzled at the Jollof Face-off Competition, 2021, preparing mouth-watering dishes that won the choice prize, and settled an age-long rivalry with Ghana on which African country should own the trademark for cooking better jollof- rice.
“President Buhari believes Hilda Baci’s drive and ambition have brought more interest and insight into the uniqueness of Nigerian food, as another cultural icon, with huge tourism benefits, hoping more young people will follow in her footsteps.
“The President thanks the sponsors of Hilda Baci Cook-a-thon, government officials, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, celebrities from the bubbling music and movie industry, and fans of the chef for all the support that has brought glory to the country.
“President Buhari wishes Hilda Baci more grace for a prosperous career.”
Hilda Baci achieved a remarkable feat on Monday by breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking time by an individual.
As of 11:22 am on Monday, Baci had cooked for an impressive 91 hours and 21 minutes, surpassing the previous record set by Indian chef Lata Tondon in 2019. The previous titleholder had cooked for 87 hours, 45 minutes, and 00 seconds.
Baci commenced her four-day cooking marathon challenge on May 11 at Amore Gardens. Remarkably, she plans to continue cooking and extend the record until she reaches the 96th hour.