Hilda Baci recognised as Guinness World Records Icon

Nigerian celebrity chef Hilda Baci has achieved another milestone, being honored as a Guinness World Records ICON. This recognition makes her the first African human to be bestowed with this prestigious title, placing her among a select group of global figures celebrated for their impact.

Baci's journey with Guinness World Records began in 2023 when she captivated audiences with her record-breaking cooking marathon. She has since continued her streak of achievements, earning further accolades for preparing the 'Largest Serving of Nigerian-Style Jollof Rice' in September 2025 and another record for the largest serving of rice in January. Her most recent recognition as an ICON celebrates her significant influence on record-breaking activities not only within Nigeria but across the entire African continent.

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Celebrity chef @hildabaci from Nigeria broke the Guinness World Records title for the longest cooking marathon in May 2023. Her 93-hour and 11-minute attempt took social media by storm and inspired others in Nigeria to take part and attempt a record of their own, resulting in thousands of applications in the months that followed. The impact Hilda’s attempt had on record-breaking from not just Nigeria, but other countries in Africa was profound, and her influence still lives on to this day. Hilda achieved her second and third record titles in 2025 for the largest serving of jollof rice and overall record for the largest serving of rice, weighing in at 8,780 kilograms (19,356 lb 9 oz).

Guinness World Records Icons are individuals and moments that shape the world. The list currently features 67 personalities, including international stars like Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, and Usain Bolt. Baci's inclusion highlights her profound impact, as noted by GWR, which stated her 2023 attempt "took social media by storm and inspired others in Nigeria to take part and attempt a record of their own, resulting in thousands of applications in the months that followed."

Reflecting on the honor, Baci shared her emotional reaction, expressing disbelief and immense pride. "I'm probably the first Nigerian to get this award. And I am very proud, very honoured to be the Guinness World Records Icon 2027," she said in a video posted on her Instagram page. She conveyed that the recognition signifies that extraordinary achievements are possible for individuals like her, recalling a time when she doubted her dreams could ever come true.

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I’m probably the first Nigerian to get this award. And I am very proud, very honoured to be the Guinness World Records Icon 2027. It feels good to know that things like this can happen for people like me. People see me taking pictures and attending fun events, but I promise you, there was once a time when I had gotten to a level where I thought that my dreams could never come true, you know.