Governor Umo Eno on Thursday, September 17, received chef and Guinness World Record holder Hilda Baci at Government House, Uyo, describing her as a worthy daughter of Akwa Ibom.
Eno said he commended her bold and adventurous spirit, which he noted continues to break barriers and bring pride to the state.
“Her journey is a reminder of what determination, courage and excellence can achieve,” the governor said. “I appreciate her kind words about the peace, infrastructure and opportunities in our state, and I encourage her to keep flying the Akwa Ibom flag high.”
Baci, born Hilda Effiong Bassey, is from Akwa Ibom. She became a global name in May 2023 after cooking continuously for 93 hours and 11 minutes in the longest cooking marathon by an individual. An Irish chef later surpassed the duration, but the attempt triggered a wave of record-breaking efforts across Africa.
In September 2025, Guinness World Records confirmed her title for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice, a feat executed with food brand Gino.
She runs My Food by Hilda, her restaurant brand, and the Hilda Baci Academy, which trains young culinary talents in traditional recipes, catering and kitchen entrepreneurship. She also works as a TV host, actress and content creator.
During the visit, Baci praised the state’s infrastructure and expressed interest in boosting local tourism. She said she was exploring partnerships to support economic growth in her home region.
