Accolades have been pouring in for record-smashing Nigerian chef, Hilda Baci aa she ended her marathon cooking at 100 hours, setting a new Guinness World Record for ‘longest cooking time’ by an individual.
Recall Hilda had, on Monday morning, equalled and surpassed the record held by Indian chef Lata Tandon for the longest cooking duration.
The delectable Akwa-Ibom-born chef then went on to hit her initial 96-hour target and surpass it by another four hours, peaking at a new world record of 100 hours.
Hilda started cooking on Thursday at 4 pm Nigerian time when she turned on her cooker for the cook-a-thon.
President Muhammadu Buhari says he shares the joy of celebrations as 27-year-old Gourmet Chef, Hilda Bassey Effiong, aka Hilda Baci, makes history by breaking the world record of longest hours of cooking.
The President in a statement by his spokesman, Mr Femi Adesina on Monday in Abuja, noted the antecedents of the restaurateur, who dazzled at the Jollof Face-off Competition, 2021.
He lauded her for preparing mouth-watering dishes that won the choice prize, and settled an age-long rivalry with Ghana on which African country should own the trademark for cooking better jollof- rice.
According to him, Baci’s drive and ambition have brought more interest and insight into the uniqueness of Nigerian food, as another cultural icon, with huge tourism benefits, hoping more young people will follow in her footsteps.
The President thanked the sponsors of Hilda Baci Cook-a-thon, government officials, including Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, celebrities from the bubbling music and movie industry, and fans of the chef for all the support that had brought glory to the country.
Buhari wished Hilda Baci more grace for a prosperous career.
Also, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Monday congratulated Chef Hilda Baci on breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest hours spent cooking.
Sanwo-Olu, in his congratulatory message on his Facebook page, said that Baci’s accomplishment was a testament to the Nigerian spirit.
He said that the chef was a great inspiration and motivator, who displayed the values of the country.
”You can see the Nigerian spirit popping out from her; the resilient spirit that Lagos is known for. We can also feel the Akwa Ibom spirit.
”Huge congratulations to Chef Hilda Baci on breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest hours spent cooking.
”I had the privilege of visiting and tasting her amazing dishes yesterday. The flavour, passion and dedication she puts into her work are unparalleled.
”Hilda, you have made Lagos proud and your accomplishment is a testament to the Nigerian spirit.
”Keep cooking up greatness!,” the governor said.
Nigerians have been cheering her on since the weekend and are have been celebrating Hilda’s success on social media.
