The culinary world has been abuzz with the recent extraordinary feat accomplished by a Nigerian gourmet chef, Hilda Bassey Effiong, better known as Hilda Baci. She has made history by breaking the world record for the longest hours of cooking, an achievement that has not only landed her a place in the Guinness Book of Records, but also placed Nigeria in the global spotlight.
Hilda Baci’s Impressive Feat:
Between May 11 and 15, 2023, Baci embarked on a culinary journey, cooking non-stop for an astounding 100 hours. This extraordinary achievement surpassed the previous record of 87 hours, 45 minutes, set by Chef Lata London in Rewa, India in 2019. The Cook-a-Thon took place at Amore Gardens in Lekki, Lagos, where over 100 specially designed recipes were served to the public.
Preparation and Process:
To prepare for this daunting task, Baci had a successful 24-hour dry run in mid-April, worked with a fitness trainer and nutritionist to lose weight, and adjust her diet. During the event, she was required to stand while cooking without the aid of coffee, stimulants, or energy drinks. She was permitted to eat food, drink water or fruit juice, and take glucose to maintain her energy levels. All the meals were cooked simultaneously, shared freely with attendees, and were meticulously recorded.
The Cook-a-Thon’s Inspiration:
The Cook-a-Thon was not just about breaking records; it was also an inspirational platform for young people. Baci hoped that her attempt and eventual victory would inspire young women across the continent, proving that dreams can be achieved, barriers can be broken, and they too can make a significant impact.
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Recognition and Applaud:
President Muhammadu Buhari lauded Baci’s efforts and commended her for turning her passion into a career that has a rippling effect on the economy. He praised her resilience, perseverance, and consistency in cooking. Other notable figures, including the outgoing governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, and the President of the Senate, Senator Ahmad Lawan, also extended their congratulations.
Conclusion:
Hilda Baci’s Cook-a-Thon was a ground-breaking project that set a new narrative and brought something refreshing to Africa. It was about more than just cooking; it was about resilience, aspiration, and showcasing the talent that Nigeria and Africa as a whole has to offer. With this achievement, Hilda Baci has cemented her place not just in the culinary world, but also in the hearts of many young people she has inspired to dream big and chase their aspirations.
