Assessing the Socio-Economic and Structural Determinants of Perishable Food Accessibility Among Hostel Students: A Case Study of the University of Abuja, Nigeria

This study assessed the socio-economic and structural determinants of perishable food accessibility among hostel students at the University of Abuja, Nigeria. Employing a descriptive survey design, a total of 70 hostel students were purposively selected from hostels within the university. Structured questionnaires were administered to elicit responses on socio-economic characteristics, food quality perceptions, accessibility barriers, and temporal–logistical constraints. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression. Findings revealed that the majority of respondents were female (60.0%), aged 23–27 years (31.4%), and pursuing postgraduate studies (45.7%). A considerable proportion received monthly allowances of ?80,000 and above (35.7%), yet food insecurity concerns persisted. Students' perceptions of the quality, safety, and freshness of perishable foods were moderately positive, though substantial proportions expressed neutrality or disagreement regarding hygienic handling and safety compliance. Logistic regression analysis identified price of perishable food (OR = 3.841, p < 0.001), distance to food vendors (OR = 2.617, p = 0.004), storage facility availability (OR = 2.184, p = 0.012), and monthly allowance level (OR = 1.963, p = 0.021) as significant determinants of perishable food accessibility. Temporal and logistical barriers, including restricted vendor operating hours, long distances to markets, and infrequent purchasing patterns, further compounded food accessibility challenges. Poor storage and preservation facilities emerged as the most reported constraint (67.1%). The study recommends that the university management invest in on-campus refrigeration infrastructure, regulate food vendor operating hours, and support student welfare initiatives that enhance financial access to nutritious perishable foods.