The vibrant atmosphere at Eko Hotels in Lagos was electric as renowned Nollywood icon Funke Akindele made an unexpected entrance during Hilda Baci’s much-anticipated Jollof feat event. The crowd, made up of food enthusiasts, celebrities, and fans from various walks of life, erupted in excitement as Funke graced the podium, marking a moment many attendees will not soon forget.
The Jollof feat, spearheaded by Guinness World Record holder and popular food influencer Hilda Baci, commenced on Friday, September 12, 2025, and quickly drew national and even continental attention. Hilda, who is celebrated for her culinary skills and innovative recipes, undertook the ambitious challenge of preparing what is believed to be the largest pot of Nigerian Jollof rice in history—a dish revered across West Africa and widely debated between Nigeria, Ghana, and other neighbouring countries for its supremacy and style.
With Hilda’s reputation as a trendsetter in African cuisine, it was no surprise that her event attracted diverse crowds, including Gen Zs, millennials, food bloggers, and high-profile personalities. However, the appearance of Funke Akindele, often described as Nollywood’s box office queen, was the highlight for many, bridging the worlds of film and food in one festive location. Her surprise performance—dancing and interacting with the audience—further energized attendees, demonstrating her charismatic ability to connect with fans beyond the silver screen.
Dressed in a custom ensemble specially designed for the occasion, Funke’s outfit reflected the vibrant spirit of the Jollof feat and added a stylish flair to the celebration. Many noted that her presence not only elevated the entire event but underscored the growing unity among Nigerian creatives, from chefs to actors, and their power in shaping cultural narratives.
Watch
https://www.instagram.com/p/DOgmDo6iBFa/?hl=en
below:
Funke Akindele Supports Hilda Baci: Social Media and Community React
The synergy between Funke Akindele and Hilda Baci at the Jollof feat sparked a wave of discussion on social media platforms, from Instagram to X (formerly Twitter). Many Nigerians and West Africans expressed genuine delight at seeing two influential women making waves in their respective fields and coming together for a landmark event. For some fans, this moment signaled the growing importance of collaboration in driving positive narratives for local culture, entertainment, and gastronomy.
Using her visibility and influence, Funke amplified the event’s significance, sharing posts and engaging directly with the audience that came out to support Hilda’s culinary journey. As the celebration unfolded, videos and photos rapidly circulated online, sparking enthusiastic responses from fans, industry peers, and local foodies alike. A viral video showcased Funke Akindele leading the crowd in dance and camaraderie, further demonstrating the power of celebrity in driving social causes and entertainment experiences.
Social media users were quick to react, many sharing their admiration for both Funke and Hilda. Reactions ranged from messages of pride in Nigerian achievements to humorous memes about who really “owns” the Jollof rice crown, a playful rivalry that continues to animate conversations across West African borders. Below, we’ve gathered some of the top community responses:
don_mires said:
“My wife fit don watch this video reach 50times. She go still watch ham tomorrow. I for carry her go the venue if I know say jenifaaa is coming 😂😂.”
_qualy_t said:
“See crowd .. 😮 even some concert no reach this one …Omooo God is good ooo.”
thesouvenirwhisperer_ said:
“If you have her rooting for you, you’re blessed. She has such a charming vibe.”
lilythereal said:
“Funke and Tomike should have been sisters fr💪🏽💪🏽love their energy.”
heraura888 said:
“Hilda is blessed 😍😍😍 and project is successful one in Jesus name.”
habibat_emporium.ng said:
“😂😂😂😂😂omoh see me smiling like mumu 😍😍😍 😍 People shows hilda love ooo 😍😍😍.”
abena.mandy said:
“You can’t take that leg work from mama 😂❤️🔥.”
only_roseline said:
“I knew aunty Funke would be out to support. She lives for things like this.”❤️
_chantelion said:
“Nigerians are beautifully made to support one another 😍 All the best Hilda👌.”
gladera_perfumery_ said:
“The grace wey this Hilda carry choke 🔥🔥.”
debby_tee07 said:
“I just dey shine teeth like Asun 😁😁😁.”
ladephoneaccessories said:
“LAFUNKY Give them 💃💃💃. Hilda baci is blessed.”
choice_white_ said:
“If you genuinely love Hilda button❤️😍😍>>>>”
_therealope1 said:
“She’s a mom. She will always advice us 😍😍😍 @funkejenifaakindele 🔥🙌.”
enechambs_foods said:
“This is a concert!!! This is very very commendable .. @hildabaci you are genuinely loved😍😍
reviews_withgina said:
“Lafunky Best in dancing 💃 and good vibes 🔥🔥.”
Credit: @funkejenifaakindele, @hildabaci
Source: Instagram
Remembering Funke Akindele’s Mother: Personal Reflections in a Public Life
Alongside her public support for Nigerian culture, Funke Akindele has been candid about her personal journey, especially regarding the loss of her beloved mother in 2023. According to reports at the time, the actress’s family announced the news, sharing an outpouring of tributes from both loved ones and fans who recognized her mother’s influence in shaping Funke’s character and resilience.
To honour her late mother’s posthumous birthday, Funke took to social media in a heartfelt gesture, sharing a picture collage that included treasured moments with her children and family. She also posted an image revealing her mother’s youthful days—a tribute that resonated with many who have experienced similar losses and understand the importance of family legacies in Nigerian culture. Through these posts, Funke reminded her audience of the enduring strength that comes from family and the value of celebrating loved ones even after they are gone.
According to Lagos-based cultural analyst Ijeoma Onwudiwe, public tributes like Funke’s are vital for “preserving the memory of our elders, bridging generational lessons, and fostering a legacy that transcends personal grief.” Such moments highlight the deep interconnectedness between the personal and the public, with influential figures like Funke using their platforms to amplify compassion and collective memory within society.
The Broader Impact: Food, Fame, and Cultural Identity
Events such as the Jollof feat are more than just a culinary challenge; they serve to reinforce a sense of national pride and cultural identity for Nigerians and West Africans worldwide. Food, according to culinary historian Dr. Emmanuel Mensah of the University of Lagos, is “a crucial aspect of our identity—the way we prepare, serve, and celebrate food is as much about memory and community as it is about taste.”
By bringing together personalities from varied creative fields, from film to cuisine, the Jollof feat creates space for cross-sector collaboration and inspires future generations to innovate and celebrate African heritage. Furthermore, the friendly yet passionate debate around whose Jollof reigns supreme—Nigerian or Ghanaian—mirrors broader conversations about pan-African unity and the continent’s vibrant diversity.
Internationally, such feats garner attention from the diaspora and non-African audiences who are often introduced to West African culture through food and entertainment exports like those championed by Funke Akindele and Hilda Baci. Their global reach not only generates pride at home but elevates the profile of Nigerian and West African creatives on the world stage, reinforcing the region’s growing influence.
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Legacy of Inspiration and Collaboration
With the resounding success of Hilda Baci’s Jollof feat and Funke Akindele’s unifying presence, the message is clear: when Nigerians come together in support of creativity and passion, the impact can reverberate far beyond the event itself. As more collaborations bloom between entertainment icons and cultural advocates, the hope is that this spirit of unity continues to uplift communities, spotlight African talent, and preserve cherished traditions for generations to come.
How do you think events like Hilda Baci’s Jollof feat and Funke Akindele’s participation shape our national pride and international image? Which other celebrities or influencers would you like to see collaborate to celebrate Nigerian or African culture? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and follow us for more inspiring stories and cultural highlights!
story@nowahalazone.com
to see your story or recipe featured, or to discuss story sales and submissions.
For general support and inquiries, contact us at
support@nowahalazone.com.
Don’t miss out—follow our culinary and cultural journey on
Facebook,
X (Twitter), and
Instagram
for the latest updates, news, and community features!
