Brass to shut down independent operations, moves customers to Paystack MFB by July 2026
By Aboki Forex —
Brass, the Nigerian business banking startup, has announced it will end independent operations and migrate customers to Paystack Microfinance Bank (Paystack MFB) by July 31, 2026. The move marks the final chapter for a fintech that once promised to transform banking for small businesses.
In a statement released on Monday, June 1, 2026, Brass said its business banking services will be integrated into Paystack MFB's regulated banking infrastructure. The company will no longer operate as a standalone entity.
Founded in 2020 by Sola Akindolu and Emmanuel Okeke, Brass quickly gained traction offering business accounts, payroll management, expense tracking, and cash-flow solutions for startups and small businesses. It was seen as a rising star in Nigeria's fintech space.
But trouble hit in late 2023 when customers began reporting delays in accessing their funds. Several startup founders publicly complained about difficulties withdrawing money from their accounts. The crisis raised fears that a deposit-taking fintech collapse could damage trust in digital financial services.
In May 2024, a consortium led by Paystack, along with PiggyVest, Ventures Platform, and P1 Ventures, acquired Brass to stabilise operations and protect customers. The financial terms were not disclosed. The deal led to restructuring, including the departure of co-founders Akindolu and Okeke.
After the acquisition, a new leadership team led by Philip Obosi and Yvonne Obike focused on rebuilding internal systems and improving customer experience. But Brass said its long-term ambitions could not be achieved alone.
“As we rebuilt and as our platform became more mature, something became increasingly clear,” the company said. “The next phase of our growth could not be achieved alone.”
For Paystack, the integration is a major step beyond its core payments business. The Stripe-owned fintech entered Nigeria's banking sector earlier through the acquisition of Ladder Microfinance Bank, now operating as Paystack MFB. By bringing Brass into its infrastructure, Paystack strengthens its ability to offer treasury services, transfers, and business banking products from a single platform.
The Brass transition reflects a broader trend across Africa's fintech landscape. After years of aggressive expansion fueled by venture capital, many startups are now focusing on sustainability, regulatory compliance, and strategic mergers. Recent consolidation moves, including Flutterwave's acquisition of Mono, signal a maturing industry where scale and stability are valued over rapid growth.
Despite ending its independent operations, Brass insists its mission will continue under Paystack. “This transition marks a new chapter,” the company said, “with even greater capability for the businesses we serve.”