FUTA First-Class Graduate Elijah Obafemi Wins Ekiti State Innovation Grant With Housing Tech Startup JustBukit

A First-Class graduate of Civil Engineering from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), 2025 set, Elijah Obafemi, has been selected as one of the beneficiaries of the Ekiti State Innovation and Entrepreneurship Grant for his housing technology solution, JustBukit.

JustBukit was developed in response to a widespread challenge faced by students across Nigerian campuses: securing safe and verified accommodation. The platform targets issues such as fraud by fake agents, misrepresentation of apartments, and cases where students make payments for non-existent housing.

The startup introduces a structured housing marketplace that connects students with verified agents while integrating payment protection mechanisms throughout the accommodation process.

Under the system, agents are required to undergo identity verification before listing properties. Students can browse available accommodations, schedule inspections, and make payments through the platform. Funds are held securely and only released after the student confirms that the property meets the agreed conditions following inspection.

The platform is also expanding its features to include an AI-powered roommate matching system as well as tools designed to simplify and secure annual rent payments between students and landlords.

JustBukit was presented at the Ekiti State Innovation and Entrepreneurship Programme, where it was recognised as a viable technology-driven solution addressing a persistent housing challenge affecting students and families.

According to the founder, the objective of the platform goes beyond accommodation listing, focusing instead on building a trusted housing ecosystem where users can search, verify, and secure accommodation without exposure to fraud or uncertainty.

The JustBukit team is currently onboarding and verifying more agents to expand the availability of trusted listings for students.

Students seeking accommodation, particularly incoming students, as well as verified agents interested in listing properties, can access the platform via: justbukit.app.