The record-breaking Nigerian chef ready to take on the world

Hilda Baci, the Nigerian celebrity chef and double Guinness World Record holder, is a force to be reckoned with. At just 30 years old, Baci has carved out a name for herself as Nigeria’s most celebrated culinary figure, blending her love for food with a sharp business acumen. Born in Calabar and raised in Abuja, Baci’s journey to stardom began in her mother’s eatery, where she honed her skills and developed a passion for cooking. Today, she is the face of the My Food by Hilda brand, which boasts over a million Instagram followers and includes a Lagos-based restaurant, cookery classes, and a private chef service. Baci first gained international attention in 2023 with her 93-hour, 11-minute cook-a-thon, a feat that broke a world record and inspired a wave of endurance challenges across Nigeria. More recently, she set a new Guinness record by cooking over 8.7 tonnes of jollof rice in a single pot. Baci’s success is no accident; it is the result of meticulous planning and a deep understanding of brand building. She envisions a global legacy for Nigerian cuisine, with plans to expand her brand to the UK, US, Canada, and South Africa. Beyond her culinary achievements, Baci is also a vocal advocate for women’s empowerment, challenging societal expectations around marriage and gender roles. Her story is one of resilience, ambition, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.