Nollywood actress Jumoke Odetola has spoken up in defence of celebrity chef Hilda Baci after the latter’s record-breaking jollof rice cooking festival came under public criticism.
Baci recently set a new world record by cooking the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice a staggering 8,780 kg, at an event that drew thousands of spectators in Victoria Island, Lagos.
While the feat was celebrated nationwide and hailed as a win for Nigerian culinary excellence, some critics took to social media to complain that the rice “wasn’t sweet,” questioning the significance of the achievement.
Odetola, known for her outspoken nature, took to Instagram to address the backlash, describing it as a sad reflection of society’s tendency to downplay the success of others.
“It is heartbreaking when negativity overshadows greatness,” she wrote. “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?”
The actress highlighted the courage, preparation, and sacrifice required to attempt such a massive feat. According to her, breaking a record of this scale takes more than just culinary skills, it demands mental strength, emotional stability, psychological preparedness, and significant financial resources.
“It takes real courage to attempt something extraordinary,” she continued. “It takes courage to dream big. But bringing that dream into reality takes even more than courage. It demands a whole lot of preparedness mentally, psychologically, emotionally, and financially.”
Read Also: Hilda Baci sets record for largest serving of Nigerian jollof rice
Odetola’s post reflected frustration over what she perceived as an eagerness by some individuals to tear down others, particularly women, who dare to achieve something notable. She urged critics to look inward and question why another person’s success triggers negative emotions.
In a heartfelt appeal, the actress encouraged those criticising Baci to engage in self-reflection rather than ridicule.
“Go somewhere private, where no one can distract you,” she advised. “Place your right hand on your left chest. That’s where your heart beats. 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. Your answer might just be the doorway to your healing.”
She concluded her post with a prayer for peace and emotional healing, expressing hope that critics would find happiness and freedom from bitterness.
“May God give us peace and happiness that surpass human understanding, and heal us from past pains that have transcended into bitterness, toxicity, and hatred,” she wrote.
Odetola’s remarks have sparked a wider conversation about the culture of criticism on social media, where public figures and achievers often face online trolling regardless of their accomplishments. Many fans agreed with her stance, echoing her call for Nigerians to celebrate achievements rather than diminish them.
Hilda Baci herself had earlier described the jollof rice festival as a testament to “unity, love, and faith,” crediting the success to the collective effort of her team, sponsors, and supporters.
For Odetola, the conversation is about more than just food, it is about shifting mindsets, encouraging people to celebrate greatness, and allowing women to thrive without unnecessary backlash.
Read Also: ‘Stop asking where my man is’, Jumoke Odetola slams netizens
With her passionate defence, the actress has positioned herself as one of the growing voices advocating for positivity and genuine support for Nigerians breaking boundaries.
