CNN
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In an attempt to set a world record, Nigerian chef Hilda Effiong Bassi has become a national sensation after cooking continuously for 100 hours.
The chef, known as Hilda Becky on social media, started cooking on Thursday and continued through Monday – creating over 55 recipes and over 100 meals to showcase the best of Nigerian cuisine in a marathon kitchen session .
The Guinness World Records committee is yet to confirm whether all their criteria have been met and whether Bassi will become the record holder.
The record to beat 87 hours and 45 minutes was set in 2019 by Indian chef Lata Tandon who posted message of support Bassey during his attempt.
Bassey told CNN that she was inspired to attempt the record because she wants to put Nigerian food on the map.
“Nigerian food is the best out there,” she said. “The more a recipe is promoted, the more people will be willing to try it. Nigerian food is such comfort food,” she said.
Despite the lack of sleep at her cooking spree in Lagos, Bassey remained in high spirits and could be seen dancing and waving to her fans, who turned out in large numbers to support her.
A man named Uduk Obong told CNN that he traveled by bus all night, traveling hundreds of kilometers to reach the venue in Lagos.
“I drove 12 hours to support my sister, my friend. He is amazing,” he said.
Enyoluwa Adeoluwa, a media personality who also served as the MC for the cookathon, told CNN: “When a Nigerian is doing something we all come out to show support…we get very excited. She is doing such an amazing job.
Actor and Nollywood star Damilola Ogunsi said, “She is opening the door to the African food market and showing all the young people here that if you can dream it, you can achieve it.”
Bassey was visited by celebrities including musician Tiwa Savage and local politicians during the cooking challenge.
Bassey told CNN she almost gave up on the first day, but after beating the previous record, she decided to aim for 100 hours.
“The first day was the toughest. I was prepared to give 6 hours. I felt like a miracle had happened and somehow I made it through. The support has been incredible,” she said.