Nigerian chef, Hilda Baci has appealed to Nigerians to focus on her ingenuity and determination in putting Nigeria on the global stage, rather than criticizing her fashion choices.
Hilda Baci, who recently broke the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking time by an individual, made the plea while reacting to the criticisms about her dressing style.
KanyiDaily recalls that a Nigerian pastor, Joshua Agunbiade had also berated Hilda’ Baci’s dressing after she rose to fame for her remarkable 100-hour cooking challenge
The pastor claimed that one can easily know a “demon girl” when she dresses like a harlot, adding that no matter the record she breaks, people will always know she is selling other things asides from food.
While addressing the media in Lagos, the 27-year-old chef defended her fashion sense, stressing that one can look sexy while still making significant contributions as a game changer.
She said, “I don’t have to be dressed like a nun to make it in life. One can be sexy and still amazing, beautiful, and smart. I shouldn’t be taken back because of my looks or dressing as this does not determine my values or endowment.”
Hilda Baci pleaded with society to allow young women to express themselves without judgment, asserting that she is confident in her skills and intellect. She emphasized, “I’ve volunteered myself to say I slay and I have something up in the brain.”
While awaiting official validation from the Guinness Book of Records, the chef expressed optimism about the confirmation of her record, highlighting that she adhered to all guidelines and left no stone unturned.
“We complied with all the guidelines and never left any stone unturned. We didn’t fall short in any area and this is quite evident and clear.
“The cook-a-thon is a deliberate attempt and not a child’s play. Our preparations were robust, hence I don’t expect to be disappointed,” she said.
Speaking on her future, Baci shared her aspirations to promote Nigerian cuisine globally, expand her restaurant, and enhance the narrative of the Nigerian culinary scene. However, she admitted feeling a sense of apprehension about her next steps.
She said, “By expanding my business ,I want to create jobs and contribute meaningfully to the economy. I’m anticipating a situation where the earnings of chefs in Nigeria will be as competitive as employees in the oil company.
“I feel the culinary space is under-rated, I want to change the narratives. I intend to work with a lot of brands to add value to their customers and brands towards their sustainability.”
Hilda Baci expressed gratitude to her team and the Nigerian brands that supported her throughout the journey, making the project a resounding success and a worthwhile endeavor.
KanyiDaily recalls that on May 15, 2023, Hilda Baci broke the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking time by an individual after smashing the previous record set by Chef Lata Tondon in Rewa, India in 2019.
