The venue of Hilda Baci’s historic attempt to prepare the world’s largest pot of jollof rice has been changed.
Gatekeepers News reports that GBfoods Nigeria, makers of Gino and headline sponsor of the festival of the World Jollof Festival, announced the change of venue on Thursday.
The record-breaking cook-up, originally scheduled for Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, will now be held at Eko Hotel Car Park B in Lagos.
Oreoluwa Atinmo, Marketing Director of GBfoods Nigeria, noted that the reason behind the move was to handle the overwhelming interest the event has attracted.
The MD said, “To accommodate this event safely and comfortably, we have moved the event to Eko Hotel Car Park B, a venue that truly reflects the scale and ambition of what we are about to achieve.”
“This world record attempt is a celebration of Jollof, and it deserves a space that allows more people to share in the experience, enjoy the culture, and be part of an unforgettable moment in our history.”
In addition to the Guinness World Record challenge, the festival will feature cultural displays, music performances, food exhibitions, and interactive activities showcasing jollof rice as a unifying cultural symbol.
Hilda also described the change of event as necessary given the massive turnout of interest.
She said, “The outpouring of love and support since we announced the attempt has been mind-blowing, with thousands of people already registered to be part of this historic celebration.”
“That is why moving to Eko Hotel Car Park B is so important; it gives us the space to welcome everyone safely and create the unforgettable experience this moment deserves.”
Hilda intends to cook 250 bags of rice in a custom-made pot measuring six metres in width, about 1.1 metres tall, and 1.3 metres deep.
The pot, designed to hold 22,619 litres, will be filled up to 80 percent capacity with rice seasoned with garlic, ginger, thyme, rosemary, curry, and other spices.
According to Hilda; the project was planned for two years. Recall that she was recognised in June 2023 as the longest cooking marathon holder after surpassing Indian chef Lata Tondon’s 87 hours and 45 minutes record.
