Mr Udom Emmanuel, the outgoing governor of Akwa Ibom State, has showered praises on Miss Hilda Bassey popularly known as Hilda Baci.

He extolled Hilda for her passion and determination to break the Guinness World record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual.

Emmanuel, according to a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Ekerete Udoh specially commended Hilda Baci for her Dakkada Spirit and for representing the best attributes of the Dakkada philosophy.

The statement made available to newsmen yesterday in Uyo, noted that the governor also spoke with the 27 year-old Nigerian chef and a native of Nsit Ubium local government area  via a telephone from Uyo Sunday evening, shortly after he arrived from an official engagement outside the Country.

The statement read in: “Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, Sunday evening, reached out to Guinness world record candidate, Hilda Baci (Miss Hilda Effiong Bassey), and commended her for representing the best attributes of the Dakkada philosophy of the State.

“The Governor, spoke with the Chef via a telephone call from Uyo shortly  on arrival from an official engagement outside the Country. He was full of praises for Hilda’s passion and determination to break the Guinness World record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual.

“This is what our Dakkada philosophy is all about; the determination to dare and conquer what others assume to be impossible. We salute you for putting our culinary skills on full display and of course, our nationally and internationally celebrated cuisines.

“You are an inspiration to millions of Nigerians, and especially our dear fellow Akwa Ibomites.

We are all solidly behind you as you embark on this inspirational moment. We look forward to hosting you soon”

Similarly, the incoming governor of the State, Pastor Umo Eno had earlier sent his message of encouragement to Hilda Baci for her accomplishment.

“By embarking on this great and historic undertaking, you have brought to the fore, our unique and nationally celebrated culinary skills and rich cuisines.

“As the world celebrates you, I want you to know that Akwa Ibom State is on the cusp of further explosion in tourism, which is a key component of our A.R.I.S.E. Agenda, and we look forward to working with resourceful Akwa Ibomites like you, who are willing and ready to break the glass ceiling of accomplishments.

“You have done our State proud, and we are all behind you. Akwa Ibom will always roll out the red carpet to celebrate you and your likes in the years ahead”,  Pastor Eno’s message read.

The statement further noted that competition on Thursday  at Amore Gardens in Lekki, Lagos by 4pm and Hilda Baci beat the 87 hours 45 minutes record set by the current Guinness World Record holder, Lata Tondon, an Indian chef who made the feat in 2019.