When the name Hilda Baci is mentioned today, what comes to mind is not just the aroma of sizzling dishes, but the strength of a young Nigerian woman who dared to turn her passion into history. Born Hilda Effiong Bassey on September 20, 1995, in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, she has grown into one of Nigeria’s most celebrated chefs, entrepreneurs, and cultural ambassadors.
The Making of a Culinary Star
Hilda’s love for food began at home, inspired by her mother’s cooking. Yet, her path to greatness wasn’t a straight line. After studying Sociology at Madonna University, she decided to chart her own course in the food industry, a path that demanded resilience, creativity, and courage.
Through her food brand, My Food by Hilda, and her television cooking shows, she brought Nigerian dishes into living rooms across the country. From “In My Kitchen” on Rave TV to “Dine on a Budget” on Pop Central, she established herself not only as a chef but as a personality who could connect with people’s everyday lives.
A Record-Breaking Spirit
The world truly came to know Hilda in May 2023, when she embarked on her now legendary cook-a-thon in Lagos. For four days, she stood behind the stove, cooking an astonishing variety of dishes for friends, fans, and curious onlookers.
When Guinness World Records confirmed her feat at 93 hours, 11 minutes — the longest cooking marathon ever by an individual at the time — Hilda became a global symbol of endurance and ambition. In her words, she wanted to “put Nigeria on the map” and prove that young African women could achieve greatness against the odds.
In September 2025, she raised the bar again, attempting another Guinness World Record by cooking the world’s largest pot of jollof rice. This bold move drew thousands of people to Lagos and once again celebrated Nigerian cuisine on a global stage.
The Personality Behind the Fame
At her core, Hilda Baci is more than a chef. She is a visionary, a risk-taker, and a dreamer who backs her ambitions with meticulous preparation. Those close to her describe her as disciplined, cheerful, and deeply patriotic.
She thrives on challenges, using her platform to showcase the richness of Nigerian food and inspire others. Her resilience during the cook-a-thon — surviving on minimal sleep and pushing through exhaustion — revealed not just physical strength, but an indomitable will.
She also brings a human touch to her success. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she provided meals for vulnerable groups, showing that her culinary passion extends beyond fame to service.
Recognition and Impact
Hilda has received recognition from presidents, celebrities, corporate organisations, and fans worldwide. Her achievements have turned her into a role model for young Africans, particularly women who aspire to break barriers in male-dominated industries.
In 2023, then-President Muhammadu Buhari hailed her as an inspiration for Nigeria. Corporate sponsors rewarded her with gifts ranging from land to business partnerships, proof of how her story resonates with both people and brands.
A Taste of the Future
Hilda Baci is not slowing down. With her growing culinary empire, media presence, and ambitious record-breaking attempts, she continues to redefine what it means to be a chef in the modern era. She represents the fusion of tradition and innovation — preserving Nigerian heritage while introducing it to the world.
Conclusion
Hilda Baci’s story is a reminder that greatness is not served on a silver platter; it is cooked with hard work, seasoned with resilience, and garnished with courage. From a small town in Akwa Ibom to the Guinness World Records stage, Hilda has proven that dreams, when pursued with passion, can become history.
She is not just feeding people with food — she is feeding a generation with hope.
Chief Edet Isong, Okete Okete Oro.
publisher Newsday Newspaper