Nigerian Stars Who Made History in the Guinness World Records

Nigeria’s creative industry has long produced outstanding talents who have made significant marks in music, dance, sports, and beyond. Many of these icons have not only excelled at home but have gone on to break world records, gaining international acclaim and setting new benchmarks for what’s possible.

Below, we spotlight some of Nigeria’s record-breaking cultural figures—extraordinary individuals who have transformed passion into history-making achievements that resonate in West Africa and well beyond.

Hilda Baci

Hilda Baci became one of Nigeria’s most celebrated chefs in 2023 after achieving the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual, with an incredible session lasting 93 hours and 11 minutes in Lagos.

This achievement showcased both her stamina and determination while promoting Nigerian cuisine to a worldwide audience.

In another bold move on Friday, September 12, 2025, Hilda sought to set a new record for the largest pot of jollof rice by cooking a massive 200 bags—a feat that sparked conversation and national pride.

Hilda Baci with her Guinness World Records certificate [Instagram/hildabaci]

Shortly after, on September 15, 2025, the Guinness World Record officially acknowledged her effort: Hilda now holds the record for the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice, weighing an extraordinary 8,780 kilograms (19,356 lb 9 oz).

Why I reduced the bags of rice I cooked from 250 to 200 bags - Hilda Baci — Why I reduced the bags of rice I cooked from 250 to 200 bags – Hilda Baci

Kaffy

Kafayat Shafau-Ameh, known professionally as Kaffy, has carved a reputation as a pioneer and powerhouse in the dance world. Back in 2006, she guided a team of dancers to clinch the Guinness World Record for the longest dance party, clocking in a strenuous 55-hour session.

Kaffy’s triumph not only earned her the title of Africa’s dance queen but also energized a new generation of performers on the continent.

Kaffy’s world record stands as a testament to endurance and the creative resolve of Nigeria’s entertainment scene. Over the years, she has become an established choreographer, fitness coach, and mentor, inspiring countless young dancers to pursue their dreams.

Wizkid

Global Afrobeats sensation Wizkid became a Guinness World Record holder in 2018 after his collaboration with Drake on the hit single ‘One Dance’.

This chart-topping song became the first track ever to surpass one billion streams on Spotify—a milestone that cemented Wizkid’s status as a trailblazer in Africa’s music scene and elevated the continent’s sound on a global stage.

Rema

Rising Afrobeats star Rema earned a coveted spot in the Guinness World Records in 2023 with his hit track ‘Calm Down’. The song became the first to ever top the newly introduced Billboard Middle East and North Africa (MENA) chart.

Beyond this accomplishment, the remix featuring Selena Gomez took the song even further—breaking streaming records and expanding the reach of Nigerian music in global markets.

Tunde Onakoya

In 2024, chess player and technology advocate Tunde Onakoya captured global admiration by setting a Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, playing 58 continuous hours without defeat in New York’s Times Square.

His record-breaking feat was much more than personal glory—it was part of his work with Chess in Slums Africa, a nonprofit that uses chess as a tool to empower children from disadvantaged communities.

8 Nigerian celebrities who held Guinness World Records

DJ Obi

Obinna Levi Ajuonuma Jr., more popularly known as DJ Obi, became a Guinness World Record holder in 2016 after spinning records nonstop for 240 hours (that’s a dedicated 10 days) in Lagos.

This achievement was not without its hardships—managing sleep, nutrition, and mental fatigue required intense discipline and strategy. DJ Obi’s persistence demonstrated both the vibrancy and competitiveness of Nigeria’s DJ scene, as well as the appetite for sensational milestones among young creatives.

DJ Obi received a lot of backlash on social media over his awful performance [Instagram/DJObiajent]

Fola David

Blending medicine and art, Nigerian doctor and artist Fola David pushed creative boundaries in 2024 when he produced the largest painting by a single individual, as recognized by the Guinness World Records.

David is well known for art that champions activism and social issues. His latest masterpiece—marked by its sheer size—stands as both a technical achievement and a call to action for Nigerian youth, capturing their resilience, ambition, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Dr. Fola David, the Nigerian medical doctor and visual artist

Idem Abasifreke & Beatisblaak Studio

In a major musical collaboration in 2024, producer Idem Abasifreke teamed up with Beatisblaak Studio and a diverse group of up-and-coming artists to break the Guinness World Record for the longest music recording session with multiple acts.

From February 10, they collectively created music for an astounding 95 hours and 59 minutes—almost four consecutive days—setting a new global standard for creative endurance and teamwork.

Setting the Pace: Nigeria’s Record Holders in African and Global Context

These outstanding individuals aren’t just collecting certificates—they’re changing narratives and redefining limits for millions of young Africans. Their stories challenge stereotypes about talent and opportunity in Africa, opening doors for future generations to dream—and achieve—on their own terms.

Local Influence: Guinness World Record successes have inspired school competitions, reality shows, and youth empowerment programs across Nigeria and the region.
Global Spotlight: Afrobeats, Nollywood, and other Nigerian creative exports now enjoy greater visibility, often being referenced in international media and via streaming platforms.
Community Impact: Record-breakers like Tunde Onakoya leverage their celebrity to raise awareness about social issues and inspire community-driven change.

What Could Be Next for Nigeria’s Trailblazers?

With every new achievement, Nigerians are proving that world records are within reach—be it in food, music, art, or advocacy. More local talents are stepping up in various fields, setting their sights on ambitious targets, and using digital platforms to share their journeys and inspire participation.

Nigerians—and many West Africans—are now seeing record attempts as both a way to celebrate their heritage and tell authentic stories for global audiences. Encouragement from fans and the broader African diaspora remains a driving force.

Which current world record set by a Nigerian or West African has inspired you the most? Do you aspire to attempt a record—or know someone who should? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to follow us for more engaging stories that spotlight Africa’s achievements!

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