Fans, well-wishers, media crews and food vendors thronged the Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, on Thursday for Chef Hilda Baci’s bid to set a Guinness World Record for the largest pot of jollof rice.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), a crowd had gathered outside the venue as early as 8:30 a.m., with admission beginning at 9:20 a.m. However, as at 1:30 p.m., the cooking had yet to commence.

Baci previously disclosed that more than 20,000 people registered to attend the event. She plans to cook 250 bags of rice in a giant 22,619-litre pot, which will be served to participants.

The atmosphere was festive, with food vendors offering popular delicacies, snacks and drinks from across Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups. Content creators and influencers roamed the grounds with cameras and phones, capturing the energy of the crowd, while upbeat music played from 12:56 p.m., prompting many to dance.

Security personnel and paramedics were strategically stationed to ensure safety and order throughout the venue.

Actor Charles Born, a close friend of Baci, expressed his delight at witnessing her latest record attempt.

“I’m really excited for my friend,” he said. “Once Hilda sets her mind on something, she achieves it. I love the energy here—everyone is excited, everyone is waiting, and people are eating. Our food is getting more global attention.”

Blessing Okechukwu, Creative Director of BAT Events and Chops, who participated as a vendor, described the event as more than just about rice.

“For me, it’s a moment of pride, serving a dish that showcases Nigeria’s unity and vibrancy to the world,” she said.

Baci rose to international fame in 2023 with her Guinness World Record ‘Cook-a-thon’. With this latest attempt, she seeks to add another milestone to her growing culinary legacy.

Jollof rice, a dish central to West African cuisine, remains a strong symbol of cultural pride in Nigeria, Ghana and beyond.