Eko Hotels champions Nigerian talent, tourism as Hilda Baci sets GWR with the largest pot of jollof rice

Eko Hotels & Suites, Africa’s leading hospitality brand, once again proved it is more than just a hotel when it became the stage for one of Nigeria’s most audacious cultural moments: Hilda Baci’s Guinness World Record-breaking pot of jollof rice.

The historic event drew nearly 20,000 young people to the hotel grounds in Lagos, transforming the city’s premier hospitality destination into a vibrant festival of food, music, and national pride. For many, the night was not just about jollof rice—it was a rare opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s people, culture, and creativity to the global stage.

Dr. Iyadunni Gbadebo, Director of Sales and Marketing at Eko Hotels, captured the spirit of the occasion: “We are big on talents, backing people to achieve great things and putting Nigeria on the global map.”

The partnership between Hilda Baci and Eko Hotels was born out of necessity but blossomed into something far greater. Narrating how Eko Hotels became a partner, Hilda noted that,“at the last minute, we realized from the registration that we would be hosting 20,000 people and that made us panic as to where we could host that number of people seamlessly. Finding a place and space as clean and organized as Eko Hotels in Lagos is very difficult and so we took a leap of faith to approach them. Thankfully, they bought into the vision and Eko Hotels has been so hospitable. We will forever be grateful.”

What could have been a logistical nightmare turned into a resounding success thanks to the hotel’s seamless organization and commitment to supporting local talent. As Hilda stirred her giant pot of jollof—“bragging rights for every Nigerian,” in her words—Eko Hotels played host to a celebration that intertwined food, culture, and tourism in one unforgettable night.

More than a venue, Eko Hotels has become a cultural hub—an institution that does not merely provide hospitality but actively champions Nigeria’s identity and projects it to the world. From international conferences to world-class entertainment and now to history-making culinary achievements, the hotel continues to prove why it is regarded as Nigeria’s heartbeat of tourism and cultural expression.

In hosting this record-breaking feat, Eko Hotels reaffirmed its role as the bridge between Nigeria’s rich traditions and its global aspirations. It was not just Hilda’s victory—it was also a testament to Eko Hotels’ vision of promoting the best of Nigeria to the world.

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