Nigeria’s quest for global recognition through extraordinary achievements continues to inspire the world — from art and sports to music, food, and literature. The latest spotlight falls on culinary star Hilda Baci, who on Friday launched her daring attempt to cook the world’s largest pot of jollof rice.
While Guinness World Records has yet to officially verify her result, her bold effort underscores a growing trend: Nigerians are increasingly pushing their limits to earn their place in history books. Over the years, several Nigerians have shattered records and captured global attention for their ingenuity, endurance, and sheer willpower.
Here are 10 remarkable Guinness World Records currently held by Nigerians:
Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke – Largest Art Canvas (2025)
At just 14 years old and living with autism, Kanyeyachukwu created a breathtaking artwork titled Impossibility is a Myth spanning 12,381.02 square metres, setting the record for the largest art canvas by an individual.
Fola David-Tolaram – World’s Largest Drawing (2024)
A medical doctor and professional artist, Fola David completed a massive piece titled The Unity of Diversity on a 1,004.7 m² canvas over six days at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.
Hilda Baci – Longest Cooking Marathon (2023)
Hilda cooked nonstop for 93 hours and 11 minutes, earning international fame and spotlighting Nigeria’s rich culinary heritage. (Note: She was later surpassed by Irish chef Alan Fisher with 119 hours 57 minutes.)
Gbenga Ezekiel – Skipping Feats (2022–2023)
Gbenga has set multiple skipping records, including 278 one-leg skips in one minute and 144 double-under one-leg skips in one minute, becoming a global sensation from Akure.
Bayo Omoboriowo – Largest Photo Book (2021)
The former official photographer to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari produced a 60-square-metre photo book chronicling Nigeria’s political history, earning a spot in the records.
Stephen Keshi – First African to Win Africa Cup of Nations as Player and Coach (2013)
The late Super Eagles legend made history as the first African to win AFCON both as a player and a coach, a rare dual achievement in football history.
Adetunwase Adenle – Most Children Reading Aloud with an Adult (2011)
A teacher driven by passion for literacy, Adetunwase gathered 4,222 schoolchildren in Lagos for a mass reading exercise, creating a record-breaking educational milestone.
DJ Obi – Longest DJ Set (2016)
Obi Ajuonuma, popularly known as DJ Obi, wowed audiences with a 240-hour nonstop DJ set in Lagos, pushing the boundaries of endurance in music.
Kaffy – Longest Dance Party (2006)
Kafayat Shafau, known as Kaffy, led her team in a 55-hour, 40-minute dance marathon, showcasing Nigeria’s unmatched energy and love for rhythm.
Fela Kuti – Most Studio Albums Released (1992)
The legendary Afrobeat pioneer recorded 46 studio albums as a solo artist between 1969 and 1992, cementing his place as one of the most prolific musicians in history.
These record-breakers embody Nigeria’s resilience, creativity, and determination — proving that with passion and perseverance, Nigerians can stand tall on the world stage.
