Guinness World Record chef Hilda Baci says her record-breaking jollof rice pot will be preserved for public viewing as a national and global treasure.
Guinness World Record holder and celebrity chef, Hilda Bassey — widely known as Hilda Baci — has ruled out selling or auctioning the giant pot used during her record-breaking jollof rice cook-a-thon.
Speaking at a press conference on Saturday at the Gino Nigeria office in Lagos, Hilda described the iconic cookware as “a national and global treasure”, insisting it would remain a lasting source of inspiration rather than a collector’s item.
“Oh, you may not have heard of it. Trust me, so many people have asked about that pot. Some people want to buy it, they said we should auction it,” she said, noting that several offers had been made.
She emphasized that the custom-made pot transcends its practical use, representing “history, faith, and innovation”.
“That pot is a symbol of a lot of beautiful things. It’s a symbol of history. It’s a symbol of faith. It’s a symbol of innovation… it represents many things,” she explained.
Hilda revealed that her team plans to restore the pot and make it available for public viewing — potentially in a museum — so Nigerians and the world can appreciate its significance.
“We’re not going to sell it. We’re going to make sure that as many people as possible get to see it in its glory. You may find it one day in a museum or even on your way to work,” she assured.
The pot, now a landmark in Nigeria’s culinary history, holds the record for the largest jollof rice ever cooked globally, cementing Hilda Baci’s place on the world stage.
About the Author
