Nigerian chef Hilda Effiong Bassey, popularly known as Hilda Baci, has made history by breaking the Guinness World Record for the “longest cooking marathon by an individual.” Hilda accomplished this remarkable feat by surpassing the previous record set by Lata Tandon, a Guinness World Record holder.
On a Monday morning, Hilda shattered the existing record of 87 hours and 45 minutes, which was set by Lata Tandon. Her cooking marathon began on Thursday at 4 pm, when she fired up her cooker. Undeterred by her achievement, Hilda decided to continue cooking for a total of 96 hours, aiming to set a new world record as the first person ever to spend such an extended period cooking.
Throughout her incredible endeavor, Hilda has received an outpouring of support from various quarters, including political leaders, celebrities, clerics, and fellow Nigerians. Notably, even a heavy downpour in the early hours of Monday did not deter Nigerians from standing by her side.
Hilda had announced her ambitious plan on Instagram on April 2nd, stating her intention to make her five-year-long dream a reality. She aimed to cook for four days and four nights, surpassing the record set by Tandon in India back in 2019.
Congratulating the 27-year-old chef, President Buhari expressed his joy and pride through a series of tweets, acknowledging Hilda’s remarkable achievement. He emphasized that Hilda Baci has not only accomplished a personal milestone but has also placed Nigeria in the global spotlight.
President Buhari further highlighted Hilda’s drive, ambition, and resilience, which have brought significant attention to the uniqueness of Nigerian cuisine. He expressed his belief that Hilda’s feat would inspire countless young people, both within Nigeria and beyond, to follow in her footsteps.
Hilda’s historic accomplishment garnered immense support from numerous Nigerians and celebrities worldwide, including Tiwa Savage, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwoolu, Dremo, Burnaboy, Enioluwa, and many others.
While Hilda’s record-breaking achievement has created a buzz, the Guinness World Record organization has yet to officially confirm her new feat. They have stated that they will thoroughly review the evidence before recognizing her as the new record holder.
Hilda Baci’s dedication, perseverance, and culinary skills have not only broken records but have also brought honor to Nigeria and inspired a generation of aspiring chefs to reach for new heights in the culinary world.
