Somto Bisina
Renowned Nigerian chef and entrepreneur, Hilda Effiong Bassey, popularly known as Hilda Baci, is poised to break the Guinness World Record for the “longest cooking marathon by an individual.”
In an extraordinary feat, Hilda Baci surpassed the 87-hour mark on Monday morning, leaving less than 3 hours to establish a remarkable new world record.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe culinary expert commenced her ambitious endeavor on Thursday at precisely 4 pm, activating her cooker to begin the competition.
READ ALSO:Hilda Baci Bassey: 5 Facts To Know About Her Cookathon
Her objective is to surpass the existing Guinness World Record set at 87 hours and 45 minutes, achieved by Indian chef Lata Tondon in 2019.
The captivating event is taking place at Amore Gardens in Lekki, Lagos and is being live-streamed on YouTube, attracting numerous celebrities and dedicated Nigerians who have braved the rain to cheer on the visibly fatigued chef.
On Sunday, as Hilda Baci crossed the three-day milestone, attendees showered her with encouragement and support.
The cook-a-thon’s official Instagram account, @hildabacicookathon, disclosed the headline sponsor as GB Foods, alongside other sponsors including Arla Foods, BaigeWallet, Filmhouse, Jumbo, Uber, and Woodscope.
READ ALSO:Chef Hilda Cooks Over 150 Meals In 68 Hours
The Cookathon has generated significant attention both online and at the physical venue, drawing celebrities who eagerly rally behind the chef.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu visited the venue on Sunday to uplift Baci’s spirits, while filmmaker Kevin Adetiba expressed his unwavering support and admiration for Hilda Baci on Twitter.
He wrote, “REALLY rooting for HILDA BACI. Don’t know her personally, but her drive, ambition, and resilience inspire and motivate me IMMENSELY. Sending her prayers and the best vibes to PUSH THROUGH. She’s inspiring people she doesn’t even know. GO HILDA… YOU GOT THIS!!!”
Former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, also commended Baci for her determination and focus, highlighting her efforts to surpass the current Guinness World Record as a testament to the true Nigerian spirit of hard work and resilience.
He tweeted on Sunday, “The efforts being made by Hilda Effiong Bassey (Hilda Baci) to beat the current Guinness World Record for cooking for 4 days nonstop shows the true Nigerian spirit of hard work and resilience. I applaud her determination and focus on the goal, which are inspiring many Nigerian youths to live their dreams through hard work and dedication. I wish her well on this noble journey to pen her name in the golden book of history. -PO”
Baci’s participation in the inaugural edition of the Jollof Face-off Competition in 2021 further demonstrates her expertise in cooking competitions. She represented Nigeria with distinction, claiming victory and walking away with the coveted grand prize of $5000.
