President Buhari Commends Hilda Baci for World Record Achievement
By Abdulrazaq Marufah Oluwafunmilayo
President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed his admiration and joy as Hilda Bassey Effiong, also known as Hilda Baci, a 27-year-old culinary expert, made history by breaking the world record for the longest hours of cooking.
This achievement has earned her a place in the Guinness Book of Records and has brought global recognition to Nigeria.
The President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, conveyed the President’s sentiments in a statement titled “President Buhari Hails Hilda Baci for Placing Nigeria on the Global Map.”
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Hilda Baci, a successful restaurateur based in Lagos, has not only established a thriving career but has also made a significant impact on the economy.
Through her restaurant, she has trained other aspiring entrepreneurs in the culinary arts, inspiring them to pursue their passions.
Her dedication and unwavering commitment to cooking have positioned her as a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and consistency in the culinary world.
The cooking marathon, which commenced on Thursday at Amore Gardens in Lekki, Lagos State, saw Hilda Baci surpass the current world record holder on Monday morning.
If certified by the Guinness World Records, she will claim the title from Lata Tondon, an Indian chef who achieved a similar feat in 2019 with a record of 87 hours and 45 minutes of uninterrupted cooking.
President Buhari acknowledged Hilda Baci’s remarkable journey, noting her outstanding performance at the Jollof Face-off Competition in 2021.
Her delectable dishes not only won the coveted prize but also settled the longstanding rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana over who prepares the better jollof rice—a significant milestone in African cuisine.
The President commended Hilda Baci for shedding light on the uniqueness of Nigerian food and contributing to the country’s cultural identity.
He expressed hope that her achievements would inspire more young people to follow their culinary passions.
President Buhari extended his gratitude to the sponsors of the Hilda Baci Cook-a-thon, government officials, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, celebrities from the music and movie industry, as well as the chef’s fans for their support, which has brought glory to Nigeria.
President Buhari concluded by wishing Hilda Baci continued success and prosperity in her career.
