Introduction: Who is Hilda Baci?

Cooking is more than food—it’s culture, identity, and passion. Few people embody this truth better than Hilda Baci. If you’ve heard the name before, you already know she’s not just a chef—she’s a force of nature. From her record-breaking cooking marathon to her thriving career as a Nigerian chef and content creator, Hilda Baci has become a symbol of ambition, resilience, and culinary excellence.

Hilda Baci’s official name is Hilda Effiong Bassey. She first captured global attention in 2023 when she broke the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon. Cooking for more than 93 hours straight, she didn’t just make headlines—she ignited national pride and inspired millions across Nigeria and beyond. Her story spread quickly across social media, sparking conversations about perseverance, food heritage, and what it means to pursue a dream against all odds.

But Hilda Baci is more than just the “Guinness record chef.” She is a household name in Nigeria because of her vibrant personality, her ability to transform Nigerian meals into unforgettable experiences, and her dedication to representing African cuisine on the global stage. For young women especially, she stands as proof that ambition, hard work, and authenticity can rewrite the rules.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the life and journey of Hilda Baci. I’d explore her humble beginnings, rise to stardom, signature cooking style, and the cultural impact she has made. We’ll also answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Hilda Baci, giving you a complete guide to why she matters in today’s food and lifestyle world.

By the end, you’ll see why her story isn’t just about cooking—it’s about passion, persistence, and the power of believing in yourself.

Early Life and Background of Hilda Baci

Every chef has a beginning, and Hilda Baci’s story is one I connect with deeply. Hilda Effiong Bassey was born on September 20, 1996, she is from Akwa Ibom State.

Growing up in Akwa Ibom, as alos is the case in many Nigerian homes, the kitchen is where culture is preserved, and for Hilda, that was certainly the case. I remember my own childhood, watching pots bubble and trying to sneak tastes before meals were served. That same curiosity defined her early years. Food was the heartbeat of her family, and the joy of cooking was passed down like a precious heirloom.

Her formative years later unfolded in Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling city that has a way of sharpening ambition. A typical example is food hawkers perfecting their craft on every street corner, and you can’t help but feel inspired. Hilda was no different. Lagos gave her the exposure to diverse cuisines, from street suya to party jollof rice, and it became the place where her passion started to take real shape.

Academically, Hilda chose a path many might not expect, Hilda Baci Studied Sociology at Madonna University in Anambra State. On the surface, sociology doesn’t scream “chef,” but when I think about it, it makes perfect sense. Cooking is about people—understanding what they crave, how they gather, and what flavors spark memories. That background gave her an edge most chefs don’t even realize they need.

Even during her university days, she wasn’t the type to wait for opportunities; she made them. Friends recall how she would experiment with recipes, invite people to taste, and take feedback like a true entrepreneur in the making. I smile here because I know that hustle well—I also remember plating meals for friends, nervous yet excited, wondering if they’d love it as much as I did. That entrepreneurial streak was clear in Hilda long before the world knew her name.

Her love for cooking wasn’t born out of duty but from sheer curiosity and passion. She wasn’t satisfied with just watching others cook—she wanted to replicate, improve, and innovate. She tried, failed, tried again, and slowly built confidence. That persistence is something every cook, whether home-based or professional, can relate to. We all start with little experiments that sometimes burn and sometimes bloom into brilliance.

By her late teens, Hilda was already thinking big—restaurants, food brands, and even building a platform that could tell the story of Nigerian cuisine to the world. Most of us dream, but what makes her stand out is how she tied those dreams to action.

Her early life teaches a powerful lesson: greatness is rarely accidental. It is nurtured by culture, strengthened by education, and fueled by relentless curiosity. For Hilda Baci, every step—her Akwa Ibom roots, Lagos upbringing, academic journey, and entrepreneurial spark—prepared her for the culinary spotlight she stands in today.

Career Beginnings in Culinary Arts

For many of us who love food, the leap from cooking casually to making it a career feels daunting. Hilda Baci knows that journey well. In my opinion, the transition from student life into the culinary world was a story of courage, persistence, and vision.

After graduating with a degree in Sociology from Madonna University, Hilda could have followed a conventional career path. But deep down, she knew her passion wasn’t in an office—it was in the kitchen. Like many young people, she had probably wrestled with the question: Should I follow the safe route, or chase my passion? I’ve been there myself, and I know how heavy that decision can feel. For Hilda, food had already become more than just a hobby—it was calling her.

She discovered her passion for cooking early, but it became undeniable during her university years. She often cooked for friends, hosted small gatherings, and tested recipes late into the night. Each time someone smiled after tasting her food, it confirmed that she was meant for this path. Passion alone, however, doesn’t make a career. The challenge was figuring out how to turn that passion into a livelihood.

That’s when My Food by Hilda was born. It wasn’t just a business idea; it was the manifestation of her dream. Starting a food brand in Nigeria isn’t easy. You need resources, discipline, and relentless drive. Hilda faced her fair share of challenges—funding, staffing, and navigating the unpredictable Lagos food market—but she never wavered. Instead, she poured her energy into building a business that reflected her creativity and love for Nigerian cuisine.

The first milestones were small but significant. Catering for intimate events, delivering meals, and slowly building a loyal customer base gave her momentum. Every plate carried her signature: bold flavors, careful presentation, and a touch of innovation. I can relate here—when I first began cooking for an audience beyond family, I realized that every dish was a performance. People don’t just eat your food; they experience your craft.

Of course, the journey wasn’t without challenges. Hilda had moments where setbacks felt overwhelming. There were days when orders didn’t go as planned, when the kitchen heat felt more emotional than physical, and when doubt crept in. But each obstacle became fuel for her growth. As an experienced cook, I know those struggles well—burned dishes, harsh feedback, and the constant fear of not being “good enough.” What sets a chef apart is the ability to rise after each setback, and Hilda embodied that resilience.

Her beginnings remind us that chasing a culinary dream is about more than recipes—it’s about grit, adaptability, and vision. With My Food by Hilda, she laid the foundation for everything the world would later celebrate.

Hilda Baci’s story in these early stages proves that greatness doesn’t arrive in one grand moment—it’s built step by step, meal by meal, with courage to keep going even when the fire feels too hot.

Hilda Baci’s Guinness World Record Cook-a-thon

Breaking a world record isn’t just about stamina, earnestly, I think it’s about vision, faith, and a burning desire to prove that the impossible can be done. For Hilda Baci, the Guinness World Record cook-a-thon wasn’t just about cooking endlessly; it was about inspiring a nation and showing the world the strength of Nigerian creativity.

Inspiration and Motivation

Every big dream starts with a spark. For Hilda, the idea of attempting the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon came from a blend of passion and purpose. Cooking had always been her way of connecting with people, but she wanted to do more. She wanted to tell the world that Nigerian cuisine is powerful, diverse, and worthy of global recognition.

As a chef myself, I understand this hunger. Cooking isn’t just about feeding mouths—it’s about telling stories. Hilda’s inspiration was exactly that: to use food as a story of perseverance, culture, and hope. She often said she wanted to prove that with determination, Nigerians can stand tall on any global stage. That vision became her fuel.

Attempting a Guinness World Record is not something you stumble into. It requires intense planning, discipline, and a support system. Hilda and her team spent months preparing, not just logistically but mentally.

They scouted venues, designed a menu of diverse dishes, and rehearsed the cooking schedule. She needed to meet Guinness’ strict requirements: continuous cooking with only limited breaks, documentation by witnesses, and clear evidence of every dish prepared.

I remember when I first heard about her plans. My first thought was, How do you even prepare your body to cook for days without rest? The answer was practice. Hilda trained her body like an athlete. She cooked for extended hours, tested her endurance, and built strategies to fight fatigue. It wasn’t just about cooking skills—it was about survival.

The event took place at Amore Gardens in Lekki, Lagos. From the very first day, the atmosphere was electric. Crowds gathered, celebrities stopped by, and everyday Nigerians came out in droves to cheer her on. The cook-a-thon became a festival of food, music, and community pride.

Hilda’s menu was ambitious: over 100 dishes ranging from Nigerian staples like jollof rice, egusi soup, and akara to creative twists on international meals. Each dish was documented, tasted, and served to guests. This wasn’t just about keeping the fire burning—it was about excellence with every plate.

Support poured in from all corners. Popular figures, politicians, and influencers came to stand by her. But what struck me most was the ordinary Nigerians who stood for hours, some even overnight, clapping, singing, and encouraging her. The cook-a-thon wasn’t just Hilda’s—it became a national project.

Cooking non-stop for over 93 hours and 11 minutes is almost unimaginable. The human body isn’t designed to withstand that kind of strain. Hilda faced swollen legs, exhaustion, and moments when her body wanted to shut down.

She was allowed only five minutes of rest per hour, and if she saved them, she could take a slightly longer break. Even then, the toll was immense. Her team massaged her legs, gave her water, and reminded her why she started.

I remember watching clips of her eyes heavy with fatigue, yet her hands still stirring pots. That’s the kind of grit every cook needs at some point in their journey. I’ve had long nights in kitchens where the fire felt hotter than my spirit, but nothing compares to her test of endurance.

When she finally surpassed the previous record of 87 hours and 45 minutes, the emotions were overwhelming. The crowd roared. Hilda broke down in tears, a mix of relief, exhaustion, and triumph. She had done what many thought was impossible.

Official Recognition by Guinness World Records

On May 16, 2023, Guinness World Records officially announced Hilda Baci as the new record holder for the longest cooking marathon (individual). The confirmation made headlines around the globe.

Guinness praised her discipline and acknowledged the authenticity of her attempt. For Hilda, it was more than a certificate—it was validation of years of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering belief.

The response was monumental. Across Nigeria, Hilda became a household name overnight. Social media exploded with hashtags like #HildaBaciCookathon and #HildaBaciGuinnessRecord, drawing millions of views. Nigerians everywhere—home and abroad—felt connected by pride.

International outlets like CNN, BBC, and Al Jazeera covered the story, shining a global spotlight on her. She wasn’t just “the Nigerian chef who broke a record”; she became a cultural ambassador.

For many young people, her success symbolized possibility. If Hilda could cook for over 90 hours and set a world record, then surely dreams in other fields were also achievable. She turned her personal ambition into a collective victory.

As a chef, I know how powerful food can be, but watching Hilda’s cook-a-thon reminded me that food can unite a nation. It showed the world that Nigerian chefs are not only talented but also resilient and innovative.

The Guinness World Record cook-a-thon wasn’t just about endurance—it was about identity. Hilda Baci stood for every young Nigerian who has been told their dreams are too big. She showed us that with preparation, community, and persistence, even the most unlikely goals can be achieved.

Whenever I think back on that moment, I picture her in the kitchen, tired but unyielding, cooking dish after dish while thousands chanted her name. That’s not just history—it’s legacy.

Impact and Recognition

One thing I’ve learned in my years of cooking is this: success in the kitchen rarely stays confined to the kitchen. When you put your heart into your craft, the world eventually takes notice. For Hilda Baci, her Guinness World Record cook-a-thon didn’t just end with a certificate—it catapulted her into global recognition and made her a cultural icon.

The cook-a-thon quickly became the talk of Nigeria. Every local newspaper, blog, and TV station had Hilda’s story on their front page. Even those who had never followed food content before suddenly found themselves cheering for a chef who was rewriting history. I remember scrolling through my own feed and being amazed at how every update about her hours clocked trended instantly.

The attention didn’t stop at Nigeria’s borders. Global outlets like CNN, BBC, and Al Jazeera covered her story, shining an international spotlight on Nigerian cuisine. For me, this was the most exciting part. Nigerian food—something we’ve always known was rich and flavorful—was finally being discussed on a global stage. Through Hilda’s determination, the world was reminded that Africa has stories and flavors worth celebrating.

Endorsements and Partnerships After the Record

With recognition comes opportunity. After her cook-a-thon, Hilda began attracting endorsements and partnerships from top brands. From food and beverage companies to lifestyle and fashion brands, everyone wanted to associate with her energy and influence.

What struck me the most is how she stayed authentic through it all. In a world where fame can easily change people, Hilda continued using her platform to spotlight Nigerian cuisine and culture. As a chef myself, I know how tempting it can be to chase visibility over authenticity—but she struck the perfect balance.

Awards soon followed. Hilda received honors from organizations, government bodies, and culinary associations across Nigeria. She was invited to exclusive events, food festivals, and global conferences. Each recognition wasn’t just about her personal win; it was about what she represented—a new wave of Nigerian excellence.

I recall watching clips of her speaking at events, confidently sharing her journey and encouraging others to believe in their dreams. That’s when it became clear that Hilda had transitioned from chef to role model. She wasn’t only cooking meals; she was now cooking hope and inspiration for others.

Perhaps the most profound impact of Hilda’s journey is her role as a cultural ambassador. Every dish she prepared during the cook-a-thon carried the story of Nigeria—our spices, our methods, and our traditions. By showcasing meals like jollof rice, egusi soup, akara, and yam porridge, she introduced global audiences to the flavors of Nigeria in ways no textbook ever could.

As I reflect on her journey, I see more than just fame—I see cultural diplomacy. Hilda has become a bridge between Nigeria and the world, using food as her language. And what a delicious language it is!

For many young Nigerians, especially women, her success is deeply personal. She’s proof that you can stay true to your roots, embrace your culture, and still shine on international stages. That lesson is worth more than any endorsement deal or award.

The impact of Hilda Baci’s achievement cannot be measured only in hours cooked or awards received. Its true value lies in the doors she opened—for Nigerian cuisine, for young dreamers, and for Africa’s place in the global culinary conversation.

When I look at her journey, I don’t just see a record-breaking chef; I see a trailblazer. Hilda’s recognition reminds us that food is power—power to unite, to inspire, and to showcase who we are to the world.

Hilda Baci as a Brand and Entrepreneur

One of the things I admire most about Hilda Baci is how she transformed her Guinness World Record achievement into more than just a moment—it became a springboard for building a sustainable brand. Fame can fade quickly if it isn’t nurtured, but Hilda has shown remarkable foresight in shaping herself as not just a chef but a businesswoman, an influencer, and a cultural entrepreneur.

Before her record-breaking cook-a-thon, Hilda had already planted the seeds of entrepreneurship with her food brand, My Food by Hilda. The restaurant began as a space where she served authentic Nigerian meals, but after the Guinness World Record, demand skyrocketed. Suddenly, what was once a local food business became a nationally recognized name.

I’ve seen how young entrepreneurs often struggle to scale after sudden recognition, but Hilda has handled it with grace. She expanded her reach, maintained quality, and leveraged her new visibility to attract more loyal customers. My Food by Hilda became not just a restaurant but a statement—proof that Nigerian meals could be served in a modern, stylish way while still retaining their authenticity.

What I love is how she balances professionalism with relatability. She doesn’t just show the polished end product; she shares the hard work, the fun, and sometimes even the bloopers. That honesty builds trust, and in business, trust is priceless.

Personally, I’ve learned from her approach that content isn’t just about selling—it’s about storytelling. And Hilda tells her story brilliantly.

With her growing influence, collaborations naturally followed. From food and beverage giants to lifestyle and beauty brands, everyone wanted to partner with Hilda. But she has been strategic, aligning only with brands that complement her image and values.

These collaborations go beyond simple endorsements. They position her as a thought leader in the Nigerian culinary space and even in lifestyle branding. Every partnership is a chance to strengthen her visibility, diversify her income streams, and reach new audiences.

I’ve seen many influencers dilute their brand by saying yes to everything. Hilda, however, chooses carefully, ensuring her brand retains its authenticity. That’s a lesson every aspiring entrepreneur can learn from.

At the heart of it all lies the question: how do you turn recognition into revenue? For Hilda, monetization has come through multiple streams—her restaurant, brand collaborations, media appearances, cooking masterclasses, and sponsored content.

She’s also smart about long-term positioning. Instead of chasing quick wins, she invests in opportunities that can grow over time, such as building her restaurant empire and expanding her digital brand. In essence, she’s crafting a business model that will last long after the spotlight of the Guinness record dims.

For me, Hilda embodies the perfect blend of passion and strategy. She reminds us that entrepreneurship isn’t just about doing what you love; it’s about creating systems that allow what you love to thrive sustainably.

Hilda Baci today is more than a chef—she is a brand. She has built a business empire that inspires young Nigerians, particularly women, to see possibilities beyond traditional roles. From My Food by Hilda to her digital presence and brand partnerships, she has shown that fame is only the beginning. What truly matters is how you channel that fame into building a lasting legacy.

Hilda Baci Beyond the Kitchen

When many people hear Hilda Baci, their minds immediately go to food, records, and global recognition. But beyond the kitchen, she has built a life that reflects balance, passion, and a deep sense of responsibility to her community.

Lifestyle, Hobbies, and Personal Interests

Hilda Baci isn’t just a chef—she’s a vibrant personality with a zest for life. She enjoys fitness and often shares how maintaining physical strength helped her endure the record-breaking cook-a-thon. Her love for music, travel, and fashion also shines through her public presence.

For someone like me who follows her journey, it’s refreshing to see a chef who doesn’t only live in aprons and pots but embraces a well-rounded lifestyle. Her authenticity makes her relatable to fans who connect with her not just as a cook but as a woman navigating life with joy and style.

Involvement in Charity and Social Impact Projects

What I find most inspiring about Hilda Baci is her commitment to giving back. She has supported community initiatives, especially those geared towards empowering women and young people. After her Guinness World Record success, she used her platform to highlight causes close to her heart, such as hunger alleviation and educational support.

This shift from personal success to collective impact is a powerful reminder that influence is best used when it uplifts others. It’s why she is increasingly seen as more than a chef—she’s a changemaker.

Public Speaking and Mentorship Initiatives

Hilda Baci’s voice has become as impactful as her food. She regularly speaks at events, conferences, and youth gatherings, where she shares lessons from her journey. Her mentorship approach is practical—she doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges but offers real, actionable insights for young entrepreneurs and dreamers.

Personally, I admire this side of her the most. Her words carry the weight of experience, and when she says, “Your dream is valid,” it resonates because she’s lived it. She has walked the path of doubt, setbacks, and resilience, and that makes her guidance authentic.

Beyond the kitchen, Hilda Baci embodies balance: a woman of ambition, style, compassion, and service. Her lifestyle and philanthropic work remind us that true success isn’t just measured by personal wins but by how much we pour back into the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Hilda Baci

Who is Hilda Baci?
Hilda Baci is a Nigerian chef, entrepreneur, and Guinness World Record holder known for her passion for food and innovation.

What is Hilda Baci’s full name?
Her full name is Hilda Effiong Bassey.

Where is Hilda Baci from?
She hails from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, a region celebrated for its rich culinary traditions.

How old is Hilda Baci?
Born on September 20, 1996, Hilda is in her late twenties.

What is Hilda Baci famous for?
She is best known for her record-breaking cook-a-thon, where she cooked non-stop for more than four days.

How long did Hilda Baci cook during her Guinness World Record attempt?
She cooked for 93 hours and 11 minutes, a feat that captured global attention.

What kind of food did she cook during her cook-a-thon?
Her menu featured over 100 Nigerian and international dishes, showcasing both tradition and creativity.

Does she still hold the Guinness World Record?
Yes, Guinness officially recognized her achievement in 2023.

What business does she own?
Hilda is the founder of My Food by Hilda, a popular food brand and restaurant.

Is Hilda Baci married?
No, as of now, she is not married.

What impact has she made in Nigeria and globally?
Hilda has become a cultural ambassador, promoting Nigerian cuisine worldwide while inspiring millions.

How has she inspired Nigerian youth and women?
Her determination and resilience encourage women and young people to pursue their dreams fearlessly.

Where can I follow her on social media?
You can find her on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube as @hildabaci.

What’s next for Hilda Baci after the Guinness World Record?
She continues to expand her brand, mentor others, and explore new opportunities in food and lifestyle.

When I look back at Hilda Baci’s journey, it feels like watching a recipe come to life—one that blends ambition, resilience, and passion in perfect proportions. From her humble beginnings in Akwa Ibom to becoming a global household name, her story reminds us that greatness often starts in small kitchens with big dreams.

Her Guinness World Record cook-a-thon wasn’t just about food—it was about representation. It put Nigeria on the map in a powerful way, showing that African talent and determination can capture the world’s attention. For me, that’s the heart of her legacy: she turned her personal dream into a national pride and global recognition.

Why does her story matter? Because it speaks to every young Nigerian, every African woman, and every dreamer who has been told “you can’t.” Hilda Baci’s life says, “Yes, you can—and you can do it with excellence.” She broke barriers in the culinary industry, became a cultural ambassador, and redefined what it means to pursue passion with purpose.

As I think about her influence on future generations, I see her as a beacon. Her story tells us to embrace our roots, to chase ambition fearlessly, and to use success as a platform for impact. Hilda Baci is more than a chef—she’s proof that with determination, consistency, and heart, one person can inspire millions.

So, whether you’re a budding cook, a young entrepreneur, or simply someone searching for motivation, let Hilda’s legacy push you forward. The kitchen may have been her stage, but the world is her audience—and her story is an open invitation for you to write yours too.