The Federal Government has congratulated celebrity chef Hilda Baci for completing her attempt to cook the world’s largest pot of jollof rice.

Baci wrapped up the challenge on Friday at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, using a six-metre-wide custom-built pot. She now awaits official confirmation from the Guinness World Records.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, through a message delivered by ARCON Director General Olalekan Fadolapo, praised Baci’s remarkable feat.

“The Federal Government lauds Hilda Baci’s extraordinary effort in putting Nigeria once again on the global map. Her dedication to excellence and her unrelenting pursuit of greatness exemplify the Nigerian spirit that the world has come to appreciate,” Idris said.

He described the achievement as another demonstration of Nigeria’s global excellence and urged young Nigerians to take inspiration from Baci’s journey.

“Young Nigerians must understand that success comes through legitimate hard work, perseverance, and commitment to one’s craft. Hilda Baci has shown us that with determination and proper planning, any Nigerian can achieve global recognition and bring honour to our great nation,” he added.

Idris also pledged government support for projects that highlight Nigerian talent and culture. “The Federal Government pledges its full support to endeavours that promote Nigerian excellence globally. We recognize and celebrate Nigerians like Hilda Baci who serve as ambassadors of our nation’s capabilities, talents, culture and food.”

“On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the entire Federal Government, I wish Hilda Baci success in this noble endeavour. Her success is Nigeria’s success, and we stand firmly behind her as she writes another chapter in Nigeria’s book of achievements,” he said.

Baci first gained international fame in 2023 when she cooked for 93 hours and 11 minutes to set the Guinness World Record for the longest individual cooking marathon.