The Chairman, Senate Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation, Senator Uche Ekwunife, representing Anambra Central Senatorial District has congratulated the Nigerian chef, Hilda Bassey Popularly known as Hilda Baci for breaking the world record and setting a new one through cooking.
The Senator in her congratulatory message described such achievement as one worthy of emulation, calling on Nigerian girls to emulate her and embrace hard work.
Recall that on May 11, the Nigerian chef, Hilda Bassey began a journey to break the Guiness World Record held by Indian chef, Lata Tondon who cooked for 87 hours, 45 minutes. On Monday, May 15, by 8:32 AM, Hilda has cooked for 88 hours, 32 minutes thereby breaking the existing record.
Reacting, Senator Ekwunife praised Hilda’s efforts in taking the bold step to achieve so much through cooking.
She says; “In a world where gender biases and stereotypes continue to persist, it is essential to recognize and applaud those who rise above such constraints. Our remarkable Nigerian chef, Hilda Baci, has done just that. She has displayed exceptional talent, passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the realm of cooking, setting a new standard and leaving an indelible mark on the world stage, proving that though it’s cooking, it does not end in the kitchen.”
The lawmaker while commending Hilda, implored government and all well meaning Nigerians to join hands in building the nation.
Ekwunife reiterated her commitment towards skill acquisition, saying that the Skill Acquisition and Training Center she is currently building in UNIZIK which is at it’s completion stage is a remarkable stride towards improving skill acquisition, urging the youths to utilize the centre when completed.
She also acknowledged the importance of creating an inclusive society where individuals are celebrated for their abilities and not limited by societal norms and prejudice.
“Let us strive to create an environment where talent flourishes, irrespective of gender and where every individual is afforded equal opportunities to thrive.” She said.
In conclusion, Sen Ekwunife extended her heartfelt congratulations to Hilda Baci for her extraordinary achievement in breaking a world record through cooking.
“She has not only made our nation proud but has also become an inspiration to millions around the world. May her journey inspire us all to break barriers, and embrace the limitless potential that resides with each one of us. Congratulations Hilda Baci.”
Meanwhile, the Guinness Book of Records has acknowledged the effort of Chef Hilda Baci.
A Twitter user had inquired why the Guinness Book of Records was yet to acknowledge Baci’s feat.
The user had tweeted “Why is Guinness World Records not showing or talking about Hilda’s cook-a-thon? Can’t see anything on their pages (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube).”
Responding with its verified handle, it wrote, “We’re aware of this amazing record attempt, we need to review all the evidence first before officially confirming a record.”
Chef Lata Tondon reacts
Before Baci’s cook-a-thon, Chef Lata Tondon, held the record for completing the task in 87 hours, 45 minutes, and 00 seconds in Rewa, India, in 2019.
Hilda Baci has presently broken Lata Tondon’s record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual.
Chef Tondon, in her message to Hilda Baci, gave a shout-out on Instagram and wished her the best.
She captioned the video, “All the best Hilda. Hope to see you on Official Site of Guinness Book Of World Record Soon !!”
‘‘I can’t wait to be official,’ Hilda Baci would later react to the Guinness World Records’ review claim via Twitter.
