Nigerian chef Hilda Bassey, popularly known as 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 title holder 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.
When asked about the motivation behind this challenge, Baci stated that it was one of her biggest aspirations. She also emphasized that it presents an opportunity to share positive stories from Africa through the meals that we eat.
She said, “The journey to the cook-a-thon started five years ago. It is one of my biggest aspirations and I am glad that I took the bold step to embark on this adventure. I have taken time to prepare for this psychologically and I am proud to finally take on this challenge.”
“The cook-a-thon is also an opportunity to tell some of the positive stories that come from Africa through the meals that we make.”
“This attempt is also proof of the strength young people can exhibit with the right platform and support. I look forward to receiving support from people across the world to achieve this feat,” she said.
Many Nigerians have been rallying support for her on social media and at the venue of the cook-a-thon, Amore Gardens in Lekki, Lagos State.
Also, congratulations from different quartes have started pouring in for the chef.
Among those to have commended her include President Muhammadu Buhari, the President-Elect, Bola Tinubu; former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi; Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos) and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun).
Baci’s achievement not only breaks a world record but also highlights the talent and determination of individuals in the culinary industry. Her dedication and passion for cooking have propelled her to reach new heights and inspire others.
As the cooking marathon continues, Baci’s remarkable feat will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration to aspiring chefs and enthusiasts around the world, showcasing the incredible possibilities that can be achieved through hard work and perseverance.