Nollywood actress has come forward to show support for celebrated Nigerian chef in light of recent criticism following another major achievement in her culinary career.
Many will remember Hilda Baci’s remarkable marathon cooking event two years ago, which catapulted her into the spotlight as a record-breaker. In her latest accomplishment, she drew crowds to Eko Hotel in Lagos with an event that has quickly become the talk of social media—even as details about the specific feat continue to dominate conversations.
This high-profile occasion attracted the support of various prominent figures, among them respected members of the public, key media personalities, and Bamidele Abiodun, who is married to the Ogun State Governor.
While many Nigerians and well-wishers worldwide congratulated Hilda for her drive and success, her event also drew detractors online, sparking fierce debates about the significance of her culinary achievement.
Jumoke Odetola Addresses Online Negativity
Reacting to the controversy, Nollywood star Jumoke Odetola took to Instagram to share her thoughts. She described the negativity that follows remarkable achievements as deeply “heartbreaking,” expressing dismay that criticism so often overshadows efforts to break new ground.
She explained that her social media timelines have been inundated with posts undermining Hilda’s record, with sceptics questioning whether cooking truly counts as a significant accomplishment.
Jumoke emphasized the enormous determination required to dream big and realize such visions. As she noted, achieving greatness in any field—particularly on such a public stage—calls for not just talent, but also significant mental, emotional, and financial resilience.
In her own words, “The Jollof Rice no sweet. I have been angry since yesterday, and if I don’t express my thoughts, I won’t be fine. It is heartbreaking when negativity overshadows greatness.
Since yesterday, my timeline hasn’t rested, posts, and banters everywhere, people saying things like ‘e no sweet’, ‘cooking na achievement?’ And I keep asking—what is going on with us? What has changed in our mindset as humans?”
Encouraging Honest Self-Reflection and Personal Growth
The actress went a step further, inviting critics and sceptics to honestly reflect on their reactions. She urged those expressing outrage or bitterness to consider what might be triggering their discomfort with a woman’s success in her field.
“Now ask yourself, slowly but honestly: WHY AM I TRIGGERED BY THE SUCCESS OF A WOMAN TRYING TO MAKE A MARK IN HER FIELD? Sit with that question,” she wrote, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and empathy.
Jumoke encouraged everyone to search within and ask themselves why witnessing another’s ascent, particularly that of a determined and talented woman, evokes negative feelings or criticism. She stressed that acknowledging and confronting such emotions is the first step toward healing and moving forward as a community.
Praying for healing and positive change, Jumoke expressed her wish for inner peace, happiness, and freedom from bitterness, toxicity, or resentment, especially among those who have felt compelled to tear down someone else’s joy.
The Cultural Impact: Why Hilda Baci’s Achievements Matter
Hilda Baci’s achievements are not just individual wins—they shine a spotlight on the evolving place of food, entrepreneurship, and women’s empowerment within Nigerian and African society as a whole. In a region where culinary talent often plays a central role in community and cultural identity, her record-breaking expertise inspires both young professionals and aspiring chefs to pursue excellence even in fields that are sometimes overlooked or trivialized.
Experts such as Lagos-based culinary journalist Ayo Adesina have noted, “Hilda’s firm resolve and ambition demonstrate that cooking is much more than the daily act of preparing meals—it’s artistry, enterprise, and above all, a legitimate path to personal and national accomplishment.”
As Nigeria and West Africa continue to export their culinary traditions and innovative chefs to the world stage, moments like this encourage conversations about women’s roles in society, the value of creative enterprises, and the importance of supporting one another in the spirit of progress.
Seeing Both Sides: Online Backlash and the Road Ahead
The backlash towards Hilda Baci’s culinary records reflects a broader trend in West African and online discourse, where achievements—particularly by women—are sometimes met with skepticism. Social media, for all its community-building power, can amplify both positive support and harsh criticism. Sociologist Chiamaka Onyegbule points out, “When we see virality and debate around success stories, it’s a mirror of our collective outlook—often hopeful, sometimes cynical, but always engaged.”
While many Nigerians rallied around Hilda, using hashtags and celebratory posts to lift her up, others questioned whether such feats genuinely contribute to national progress, or are simply publicity. Both sides of the argument are important in a vibrant democracy—but as Jumoke Odetola’s comments suggest, there’s room for more compassion and admiration for those who work hard to make Nigeria proud.
Food, Feminism, and the Future
In Nigeria and across Africa, food is central to family, communal gatherings, and even diplomacy. The visibility of women like Hilda Baci, who turn their culinary skills into platforms for inspiration and innovation, signals ongoing shifts in gender norms and entrepreneurship. With millions watching and discussing, these cultural moments also shape future opportunities for women and young people eager to redefine what “achievement” means in today’s world.
International observers have also taken note, linking Hilda’s journey to the broader trend of African talent making waves globally, from music and film to fashion and gastronomy. By standing tall in the face of criticism and breaking new ground, figures like Hilda and her supporters are paving the way for others—reminding us all that greatness can come in many forms.
What’s Your Take? Have Your Say!
Do you think cooking marathons and similar public feats should be celebrated as milestones? Why do you believe some people react negatively to such achievements—especially when women are in the spotlight? Join the conversation and let us know how you see the evolving role of food, culture, and gender in Nigeria, West Africa, and beyond.
What’s your opinion on this story? Have you got a unique local recipe or a food achievement you’re proud of? Share your experiences or join the conversation in the comments below!
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