Nigerian Chef Hilda Effiong Bassey, better known as Hilda Baci, has made history by breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual. On Monday, she smashed the previous record of 87 hours and 45 minutes held by Chef Lata Tondon from India. Hilda Baci launched into the competition on Thursday at exactly 4pm and aims to cook for 96 hours, setting a new world record as the first human on earth to spend such an amount of time cooking.
Baci has continued to receive overwhelming support from government officials, celebrities, clerics, and other well-meaning Nigerians. Despite a heavy downpour in the wee hours of Monday morning in Lagos, Nigerians stood by her.
Earlier, Chef Tondon, who previously held the record for the longest cooking time, sent her well wishes to Hilda. Additionally, her native Akwa Ibom State governor, Udom Emmanuel, called Hilda and commended her for representing the best attributes of the Dakkada philosophy of the State. The governor was full of praise for her passion and determination to break the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual.
Earlier, President-elect Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, among others, identified with Hilda Baci.
By breaking the Guinness World Record, Hilda Baci has made a significant impact on the culinary industry. She has not only set a new world record but also put Nigerian cuisine in the spotlight. Her achievement has also put the spotlight on the Dakkada philosophy, which emphasizes determination and conquering what was previously thought to be impossible.
Hilda Baci’s world record achievement is a source of inspiration to millions of Nigerians, especially in Akwa Ibom State. It is hoped that her accomplishment will encourage other Nigerians to pursue their dreams with passion and determination.