Lena Metlege Diab is leaving provincial politics.

The MLA for Halifax Armdale announced Tuesday she's seeking the nomination to be the Liberal candidate for Halifax West in the next federal election.

“This was a difficult decision for me,” said Metlege Diab in a news release. “I have loved my time in provincial politics but after a lot of thought and consultation with my family, friends and colleagues, I am ready to take my experience and talents to advocate for Nova Scotians in Parliament."

"It has been an honour and a privilege to serve the residents of Halifax Armdale for the last eight years."

First elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly in 2013, Metlege Diab has served in a number of different portfolios, including as the province’s first female Attorney General and Minister of Justice.

She has also been Minister of Immigration and population growth, Ministre des Affaires acadiennes et francophonie and most recently, Minister of Labour and Advanced Education.

Halifax West is currently represented by long-time Liberal MP Geoff Regan, who announced earlier this year he would not be reoffering.